Gowda, arrested under PMLA Section 19, allegedly posed as a political leader’s sister to commit fraud. The ED is investigating her connections and others possibly involved in laundering the proceeds
Published Jun 24, 2025 | 12:15 AM ⚊ Updated Jun 25, 2025 | 6:37 PM
Former MP DK Suresh appears before ED in money laundering case linked to Aishwarya Gowda (X)
Synopsis: Former MP DK Suresh appeared before the ED on 23 June in a money laundering case linked to Aishwarya Gowda, accused of defrauding a jeweller of ₹9.82 crore by posing as a politician’s sister. Gowda was arrested under the PMLA, 2002. The ED is investigating her role and possible involvement of others in laundering the proceeds
Former Member of Parliament DK Suresh appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday, 23 June, in connection with a money laundering case involving Aishwarya Gowda, who has been accused of defrauding a Bengaluru-based jeweller of gold worth ₹9.82 crore.
Gowda, arrested on Friday under Section 19 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, is alleged to have falsely claimed to be the sister of two political leaders in order to carry out the fraud.
The ED is probing her links and potential involvement of other individuals in laundering the proceeds.
Ahead of his appearance, Suresh addressed the media, stating, “The ED has summoned me for questioning. I will fully cooperate and seek clarity on the grounds for the summons.”
When asked whether he believed the move was politically motivated, he said, “We’ll understand more during the inquiry—whether the questions are relevant to the case or not. My legal team will assess the situation accordingly.”
He also expressed concern over the agency’s functioning, remarking, “The Supreme Court and High Courts have stated that the ED is overstepping its limits. If this continues, it threatens our democratic system. They appear to be acting as a puppet of the government.”
Responding to questions about his alleged connection to Aishwarya Gowda, Suresh firmly denied any financial dealings with her.
“She met me three or four times at my home office to discuss certain matters. Since she lived in my constituency, I attended some events she invited me to. There were no other transactions. I will provide all relevant information to the authorities,” he said.
The ED investigation remains ongoing.
(Edited by Ananya Rao with inputs from Nolan Patrick Pinto)
