Nithyananda to be investigated for money laundering

Bangalore April 24 DH News Service

Self-styled godman Nithyananda is likely to be interrogated by the Enforcement Directorate and booked under Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA).

CID sleuths interrogating Nithyananda at their Bangalore headquarters are almost convinced that Nithyananda is involved in a series of money deals abroad. His foreign donations, investments and assets are sure to come under the scanner. “We are aware that none of the cases Nithyananda is facing is going to hold water, but he is sure to be grilled and cornered under the Money Laundering Act. So, we will apprise the Government and seek ED’s  interference," said a senior officer. Director General (CID) Guruprasad quizzed Nithyananda for more than two hours. Nithyananda was rolling the rudrakshi beads and answering the questions. For the last two days, he did not co-operate with the police. Later, a marathon review meeting was held and the officers involved in the investigations presented their updated papers. At the time of his arrest in Himachal Pradesh, Nithyananda was carrying $7,000 and during interrogation he failed to give a convincing answer and reveal the source. It is clear that the godman has not taken any sanctions from the Government of India. On Monday, Nithyananda will be produced before the court and, if need be, the cops will request for an extension of his police custody.