BJP says 'it's a Landmark Judgement', Cong expresses disappointment

The Supreme Court upholding certain powers of the Enforcement Directorate on Wednesday evoked contrasting responses from BJP and Congress, with the ruling party hailing it as a "landmark judgement" and its rival expressing concern that it would increase the possibility of the probe agency's "political misuse".

The Supreme Court upheld ED's powers relating to arrest, attach property, search and seize under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) that were challenged by multiple petitioners including Congress leader Karti Chidambaram.

Welcoming the verdict, the BJP described it as a "landmark" and said it should put an end to opposition leaders' "propaganda" and political arguments against the law.


BJP chief JP Nadda said: "The Supreme Court has upheld the PMLA and has also validated the jurisdiction of ED. We honour and respect our Supreme Court and also our Constitution and our law."

Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot voiced disappointment and said the ruling will increase the possibility of "political misuse" of ED by the Centre. "The pronouncement of the Hon'ble Supreme Court on the rights of PML Act and ED is disappointing and worrying,"he tweeted.