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Kejriwal accuses ED of misuse as Punjab minister Arora raided and arrested

On May 10, 2026, the Enforcement Directorate raid Punjab minister Sanjeev Arora and others amid a money-laundering probe, leading to Arora's arrest. AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal accused central agencies of pressuring party colleagues, and BJP leaders responded with criticisms and counter-claims.

Why It Matters

The events raise allegations of potential political use of central agencies in state matters and could influence Punjab's political landscape ahead of upcoming polls.

Timeline

6 Events

Punjab Congress leader Bajwa calls for transparency and fairness

May 10, 2026

Leader of Opposition in the Punjab Assembly Partap Singh Bajwa said the ED raids and Arora’s arrest highlight serious corruption allegations against the ruling party, questioning the timing of the action and urging transparency and fairness in investigations.

Punjab BJP chief Jakhar comments on ED raids and corruption

May 10, 2026

Punjab BJP chief Sunil Jakhar said the ED raids against Arora pertain to corruption and corrupt practices, criticizing the ruling government for defending those involved instead of taking action.

BJP criticizes Kejriwal over Aurangzeb remark; Bittu responds

May 10, 2026

Union minister of state for railways Ravneet Singh Bittu accused Kejriwal and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann of only remembering Mughal rulers and dismissed the Aurangzeb comparison, stating that action will be taken wherever wrongdoing has occurred.

Kejriwal alleges Ashok Mittal joined BJP after ED raids on his premises

May 10, 2026

Kejriwal claimed Rajya Sabha member Ashok Mittal joined the BJP after ED raids on Mittal’s premises, arguing that Arora’s raid was another attempt to pressure him to join the BJP, with the implication that non-joining could lead to further action.

Kejriwal posts on X alleging ED raids began in Punjab after Bengal polls

May 10, 2026

In a long post on X in Hindi, Kejriwal claimed that ED raids started in Punjab soon after the Bengal polls concluded and accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of coercing Punjabis. He likened Modi to Aurangzeb and alleged dismissive actions against Punjab, including purported efforts to dilute river-water rights, take control of Panjab University in favor of Haryana, and withhold rural development funds.

ED conducts fresh searches against Punjab minister Sanjeev Arora; Arora arrested

May 10, 2026

The Enforcement Directorate conducted fresh searches against Punjab industries, power and local bodies minister Sanjeev Arora and several others as part of a probe into a newly registered money-laundering case. Arora was subsequently arrested by the ED.