The Delhi High Court Yesterday (March 16th), declined to grant additional extension to the interim medical bail provided to Ramesh Chandra, the founder of real estate company Unitech, in connection with a money laundering case. Instead, the court instructed him to surrender before the jail superintendent Today.
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NEW DELHI: The Delhi High Court made a decisive ruling on Friday regarding the interim medical bail granted to Ramesh Chandra, the founder of real estate giant Unitech, amidst a money laundering case. Refusing further extension, the court instructed Chandra to surrender before the jail superintendent Today.
Justice Anoop Kumar Mendiratta, presiding over the case, didn’t mince words when highlighting the severity of the allegations against Chandra. Noting the alleged diversion of over Rs 5,000 crore belonging to deceived home buyers left without shelter, Justice Mendiratta remarked that Chandra cannot assert bail merely to receive treatment at a specialized hospital of his preference.
“It cannot be claimed as a matter of right for treatment only at a specialised hospital of his choice,”
-emphasized Justice Mendiratta. However, the judge, cognizant of the petitioner’s health, directed the jail superintendent to ensure Chandra receives necessary medical care within the confines of jail regulations to safeguard his life.
“In the facts and circumstances, petitioner is directed to surrender before the Superintendent Jail on 16.03.2024, and interim bail is extended till then,”
-declared the court.
Furthermore, the court mandated that should Chandra’s medical condition worsen or circumstances demand, he must be promptly transferred to G.B. Pant Hospital or another specialized government healthcare facility for required treatment, with all requisite medical facilities provided as per jail regulations.
The court’s directive signifies the delicate balance between legal proceedings and humanitarian considerations. It underscores the importance of upholding justice while ensuring the well-being of the accused. As the legal saga unfolds, it’s imperative that Chandra receives adequate medical attention, adhering to both legal mandates and ethical responsibilities.
The court emphasized that the petitioner must undergo evaluations at least twice a week to ensure the continuity of medical treatment.
Initially, Chandra was granted an eight-week interim bail on July 28, 2022, by the high court. This interim bail was extended multiple times due to the lack of improvement in his condition. Chandra’s legal counsel requested a further extension of the interim bail, citing his advanced age of over 85 years and his poor health, which necessitated continuous monitoring and treatment.
However, the Enforcement Directorate opposed any extension of the interim bail, arguing that according to a report from an AIIMS medical board, Chandra’s illness was not life-threatening, and treatment could be provided within the jail premises.
The court noted that for bail on medical grounds under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, the illness must be severe and life-threatening, and the required treatment must be unavailable within the jail hospital or custody.
Observing the gravity of the situation, the court remarked,
“The petitioner, who was one of the Directors of Unitech Limited, is involved in serious offences, involving diversion of funds to the tune of about Rs.5,826 crore belonging to home buyers, who stand duped and are shelterless.”
Highlighting the legal stance, the court reiterated,
“In view of medical opinion, the petitioner cannot claim bail as a matter of right for treatment only at a specialized hospital of his choice.”
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