Political vendetta: Robert Vadra after ED appearance in Gurugram land case

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned businessman Robert Vadra, husband of Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, for questioning in a money-laundering probe tied to the Shikhopur land deal in Haryana. This marks the second summons, as Vadra skipped the initial call on April 8, 2025.

“Political vendetta”: Vadra

Robert Vadra marched from his Delhi residence to the ED office, alleging a “political vendetta” by the BJP-led government. Speaking to reporters, he claimed the summons were an attempt to silence his advocacy for the public. “Whenever I talk for the people, they try to suppress me. It’s a political vendetta. I have nothing to hide,” he asserted.

Congress supporters rallied behind him, chanting slogans accusing the government of misusing agencies like the ED to target opposition figures.

Why ED summoned Vadra?

The investigation centers on a 2011 transaction involving Vadra’s firm, Skylight Hospitality, which purchased 3.5 acres in Shikhopur for ₹7.5 crore and sold it to DLF for ₹58 crore, raising suspicions of financial irregularities. The ED aims to record Vadra’s statement under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act to trace the profit trail.

What is Gurugram land case?

Gurugram land case stems from allegations by former Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal in 2012, who accused Vadra of allegedly receiving a ₹65 crore interest-free loan and land discounts from DLF in exchange for political favors during Congress’s rule in Haryana. DLF has denied wrongdoing, framing the transaction as a standard business advance.

The deal came into spotlight after IAS officer Ashok Khemka canceled the land’s mutation in 2012, sparking a political firestorm. Vadra, linked to the Gandhi family, has long faced scrutiny over his business dealings, often labeled a “witch hunt” by Congress. Recently, he hinted at joining politics, citing his family’s legacy and public support, while accusing rivals of exploiting his name for electoral gain.