Today, On 22nd July, Former Karnataka Congress minister B Nagendra, arrested by the Enforcement Directorate on July 12 in connection with the Valmiki Corporation scam, has been remanded to 14 days of judicial custody. This marks a significant development in the investigation of alleged fund misappropriation, highlighting the pervasive issue of corruption in political spheres and the necessity for transparent governance.
Today, On 19th July, The Delhi High Court rejected petitions by Sathish Sana and Pradeep Koneru to dismiss the money laundering case involving them and Moin Qureshi. The court found prima facie evidence of money laundering and upheld the constitutional validity of Section 50(2) of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. The case involves alleged bribery and power struggles within the CBI.
Former Gitanjali Group executive Sunil Varma, accused in the PNB scam, was granted interim bail by an anti-money laundering court. The CBI sought custody, alleging his involvement in orchestrating the scam. Varma, who had been evading the authorities, appeared in court following the suspension of a non-bailable warrant. Varma’s lawyer argued that the summons were incorrectly served.
On Tuesday(16th July),The Delhi High Court upheld the ED’s decision to auction 26 luxury cars owned by Leela Paulose, wife of conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar, acquired through illicit funds. The court dismissed Paulose’s plea, emphasizing vehicle depreciation and instructed the proceeds be deposited into an interest-bearing fixed deposit.
Singhvi is emerging as a go-to lawyer for opposition leaders facing legal challenges. He secured interim relief for Kejriwal in a money laundering case and has successfully represented other high-profile politicians, highlighting inconsistencies and lack of evidence. His growing reputation makes him a key figure for opposition parties in legal battles against investigative agencies.
Today, On 12th July, The Supreme Court emphasized the importance of avoiding mechanical stays on bail orders and highlighted the need for substantial justifications before such actions. Justices Oka and Masih stressed the significance of upholding individual freedoms within the judicial process. They asserted that staying bail orders should only occur in rare and exceptional circumstances, such as those involving terrorism.
Today, On 12th July, The Supreme Court granted interim bail to Arvind Kejriwal in the money laundering case linked to the liquor policy controversy. Kejriwal is barred from visiting the Chief Minister’s Office and interacting with witnesses. The Court referred the legality of his arrest to a larger bench and highlighted the importance of judicial scrutiny in such cases.
Today(on 9th July), The Supreme Court rebuked the Enforcement Directorate for its lack of progress in the money laundering investigation against former IAS officer Anil Tuteja, linked to the Chhattisgarh liquor policy scam. The court expressed displeasure at the ED’s inaction since Tuteja’s anticipatory bail in 2020, leading to an extension for the hearing in August.
Yesterday, 3rd July, The Enforcement Directorate (ED) plans to challenge the Jharkhand High Court’s decision to grant bail to former Chief Minister Hemant Soren. The ED argues that the court’s belief in Soren’s innocence is mistaken and that he does not meet the requirements of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Soren’s legal battles have drawn widespread attention. The appeal’s outcome could significantly impact his political career and legal processes in Jharkhand.
Today, On 26th June, The Enforcement Directorate (ED) criticized the trial court’s hasty granting of bail to Arvind Kejriwal, emphasizing that it undermined the judicial process’s integrity. The Supreme Court allowed Kejriwal to file a substantial appeal, as the ED highlighted procedural lapses and failure to comply with mandatory conditions. Additionally, the CBI was granted permission to formally arrest Kejriwal.
