NEW DELHI: Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut was questioned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for over 10 hours on Friday in connection with a money laundering probe. Raut reached the ED office located at the Ballard Estate in south Mumbai around 11.30 am and left around 10 pm.
Coming out of the ED office, Raut said: “It is our duty to go in front of the central agencies if they have any doubt in their minds so that people do not have any doubt in their minds about us. We were questioned for 10 hours and we gave full co-operation.”
Heavy police force was deployed outside the central agency’s office as large number of Shiv Sena workers were present at the spot. Barricades were placed on the roads leading to the office.
After his arrival, the Sena MP, seen sporting a saffron muffler around his neck, waved at his supporters before entering the office along with his lawyer.
Speaking to reporters before going inside, Raut said, “I will co-operate with the agency in the investigation. It had summoned me, they require some information from me and it is my duty as a member of Parliament, responsible citizen and leader of a political party to co-operate with them.”
He said he was “fearless and undaunted” as he has “not done anything wrong in life”.
When asked whether it is a politically motivated case, Raut said, “We will come to know it later. I think I am appearing before the agency, which is neutral, and I have full confidence in them.”
Earlier in the day, the Sena leader posted a tweet saying, “I will be appearing before the ED today at 12 noon. I respect the Summons issued to me and it’s my duty to co-operate with the Investigation agencies.I appeal Shivsena workers not to gather at the ED office. Don’t worry !”
(With inputs from PTI)