The Enforcement Directorate has summoned Shiv Sena leader Amol G. Kirtikar for investigations into the alleged money-laundering case arising from the ‘khichdi scam’. The scam involves contracts awarded by BMC during the Covid-19 pandemic crisis. Kirtikar is the party’s candidate from Mumbai North West Lok Sabha seat.
Following the first summons on March 27, Kirtikar had requested more time due to short notice and prior commitments. The ED has now called him for questioning on April 8. The ‘khichdi scam’ came to light after the MVA government was ousted, leading to an FIR against SS(UBT) leaders and BMC officials.
During the probe, Kirtikar’s name surfaced, leading to questioning by the EOW. As the money-laundering angle emerged, the ED got involved, filing its own complaint. Suraj Chavan, a close associate of ex-minister Aditya U. Thackeray, was arrested, with attachment orders on his properties worth Rs 88 lakh.
BJP’s Kirit Somaiya alleged that Kirtikar received Rs 1.65 crore from the ‘khichdi scam’ and demanded accountability. Kirtikar, the son of veteran Sena leader Gajanan Kirtikar, faces scrutiny ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, causing tensions among MVA allies and within Shiv Sena itself.
