Why Does Raut Claim His ED Arrest Was Politically Motivated?

What exactly is Sanjay Raut accusing the ED and BJP of doing?

Raut has accused the ED of functioning as a “weapon” of the BJP, Modi, and Shah to target political opponents. On May 23, 2025, following the Supreme Court’s criticism of ED raids in Tamil Nadu, Raut stated, “I am a victim too (of ED)… ED is a weapon of BJP, of PM Modi, of HM Amit Shah”. He claims his 2022 arrest in an alleged money laundering case was politically motivated, aimed at punishing him for his role in forming the MVA government in Maharashtra in 2019, which blocked BJP’s path to power. In his book Narkartala Swarg, Raut alleges that after the BJP-Shiv Sena split over the chief minister’s post, the ED was deployed to destabilize the MVA, targeting leaders like Anil Deshmukh, Nawab Malik, and himself. These accusations align with his earlier claims in 2022, where he submitted evidence to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) about ED officials’ alleged extortion and misuse of power.

What Are the Implications of Raut’s Allegations for Indian Democracy?

Raut’s accusations fuel a broader opposition narrative that the BJP uses agencies like the ED to suppress dissent, threatening democratic principles. Congress leader Shashi Tharoor and others have echoed Raut, condemning the “selective targeting” of opposition figures. Posts on X amplify this sentiment, with users labeling the ED as Modi and Shah’s “political weapon”. However, the BJP counters that Raut’s claims lack substance, with leaders like Vishwas Pathak dismissing them as publicity stunts. The controversy raises concerns about the independence of agencies like the ED, especially as Raut alleges Maharashtra’s governance is now controlled from Delhi, eroding state autonomy. This debate could erode public trust in institutions, intensifying political polarization in India as the 2029 elections approach, with opposition parties rallying against perceived authoritarian tactics.