NATIONAL: National Herald Case: Kharge Says ‘Justice Triumphed’
A Delhi court has provided significant relief to Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi by refusing to take cognizance of the Enforcement Directorate’s money laundering chargesheet in the long-standing National Herald case.
The decision, announced on December 16, 2025, stems from procedural grounds, as the court noted the ED’s complaint relied on a private complaint rather than a formal police FIR.
This ruling offers temporary respite to the Gandhis and others accused, though investigations may continue.
Background of the Case
The National Herald newspaper, established in 1938 by freedom fighters, is published by Associated Journals Limited (AJL).
Allegations surfaced that Congress provided an interest-free loan of over Rs 90 crore to AJL, which was later assigned to Young Indian Private Limited, a company largely owned by Sonia and Rahul Gandhi.
Critics claim this transaction allowed acquisition of valuable AJL assets at a nominal cost, prompting probes into potential financial irregularities.
Court’s Key Observations
Special Judge Vishal Gogne ruled that proceedings under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act require a scheduled offense backed by an FIR.
Since the ED’s chargesheet was based on a private complaint by Subramanian Swamy, it was deemed impermissible at this stage.
The court allowed the ED to pursue further investigation and noted that a separate Delhi Police FIR exists in the matter.
Congress Celebrates the Ruling
Party president Mallikarjun Kharge hailed the verdict as a victory for truth, calling the case a pure political vendetta aimed at harassing the Gandhi family.
He emphasized the newspaper’s historical role in the freedom struggle and accused central agencies of being misused against opposition leaders.
Other leaders echoed this sentiment:
- Abhishek Manu Singhvi described it as a clear example of agency misuse.
- K.C. Venugopal vowed to expose what he termed vendetta politics.
The party views the decision as validation after years of legal battles.
Ongoing Aspects and Responses
While the ED’s specific chargesheet was not accepted, sources indicate the agency may file a fresh one incorporating the Delhi Police FIR.
BJP leaders have countered Congress claims, insisting the case remains active and dismissing celebrations as misleading.
This development highlights continuing political friction over the use of investigative agencies in high-profile cases.