Thiruvananthapuram: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized the principle of equality before the law, asserting that no individual can receive preferential treatment. In an exclusive interview with Janam TV’s Editor-in-Chief Pradeep Pillai, Nirmala Sitharaman addressed the misleading narratives circulating regarding the Enforcement Directorate (ED) investigation in the state.
In response to a query regarding whether democracy is overshadowed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), the Finance Minister asserted that no entity can be given preferential treatment. She explained that the ED, along with other investigative agencies, operates according to established procedures. Emphasizing the necessity for thorough preparation before taking action, she stressed that the ED acts only when substantial evidence is at hand. Furthermore, she underscored the universality of the law, applicable to all individuals, not just the general populace.
Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized that the law remains consistent regardless of the proximity to elections. Drawing attention to the past, she compared the autonomy of investigative agencies such as the CBI during the UPA regime to “caged parrots.” However, she noted that the present scenario differs, with investigations proceeding without undue influence. Nirmala Sitharaman dismissed delays in investigations as mere political criticism.
Furthermore, Nirmala Sitharaman criticized the Kerala government’s petition against the President of Bharat, labeling it as an attempt to undermine the constitution. The Union Minister highlighted that only Marxists could adopt such an unconstitutional stance.
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