Uddhav Thackeray supports Raj Thackeray after ED summons in money laundering case

Mumbai: After Enforcement Directorate's notice to MNS chief Raj Thackeray in connection with its money laundering probe in the IL&FS alleged payment default crisis case, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray has come out in support of him. The Shiv Sena chief said that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) probe against the MNS chief will bear no results as reported by India Today.

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief has been asked to appear before the investigation officer of the case on 22nd August.

ED had also noticed Former state chief minister and Shiv Sena leader Manohar Joshi's son Unmesh Joshi and recorded his statement under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) in the same case, according to India Today reports.

An activist of the MNS allegedly committed suicide in Maharashtra's Thane district, with a party leader on Wednesday claiming he was "depressed" over the Enforcement Directorate's notice to MNS chief Raj Thackeray. However, the police said no suicide was found and a probe was underway to ascertain why he took the extreme step.

The deceased, Pravin Chowgule (27), was an alcoholic and used to be frequently depressed, police sub-inspector Mahesh Kawde said. He allegedly doused himself with kerosene and set himself afire at his residence in Kalwa township around 10 pm on Tuesday, Kawde said.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Thackeray said he would "honor" the summons, and appealed to his party workers to maintain "peace and harmony" and not to indulge in violent protests. The ED is probing alleged irregularities related to loans and equity investment worth over Rs 450 crore by Infrastructure Leasing & Financial Services (IL&FS) in Kohinoor CTNL Infrastructure Company, which is developing Kohinoor Square tower in Mumbai's Dadar area.
(With inputs from PTI)