Former MP D.K. Suresh appears before ED in ₹9.82 crore gold scam case

Bengaluru

Former Bengaluru Rural MP D.K. Suresh appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) today in connection with a ₹9.82 crore gold scam case involving Aishwarya Gowda. The ED had issued a summons on June 19, directing Suresh to appear for questioning, to which he had responded that he would be present on June 23.

The case pertains to allegations that Aishwarya Gowda defrauded Vanitha S. Aithal, owner of the Warahi World of Gold jewellery store, by obtaining gold under false pretenses, claiming she was D.K. Suresh’s sister and had political connections.

Speaking to media earlier in the day outside his Sadashivanagar residence, Suresh said, “I have been asked to appear before the ED and I will cooperate fully. I will understand on what basis I have been summoned. My legal counsel will accompany me.”

On whether the ED action was politically motivated, Suresh remarked, “We’ll understand the nature of the questions during the inquiry. We’ll see if it is related to the case or not. The Supreme Court and High Courts have repeatedly said ED is overstepping its mandate. If that continues, it is a threat to democracy.”

Refuting allegations of financial transactions between him and Aishwarya Gowda, Suresh stated, “There has been no monetary or business dealing between me and her. She visited my home office a few times and discussed certain matters. She was a resident of my constituency, which is why I attended a few programs she organized. Apart from that, there is no connection. I will share all necessary information with the ED.”

With the possibility of supporters accompanying the recently re-elected MP from Bangalore Rural (Bamul constituency), over 50 police personnel were deployed outside the ED’s Shantinagar office as a precautionary measure.