The Supreme Court will examine whether acquittal in a predicate criminal case automatically ends money-laundering proceedings by the Enforcement Directorate. The court questioned earlier rulings and warned that such a view could defeat the very purpose of the PMLA.
CJI B.R. Gavai said he would speak to Justice Surya Kant on whether to list fresh writ petitions along with review pleas against the 2022 verdict upholding PMLA. Petitioners seek a larger bench reference on ED’s powers.
Today (16th May): The Supreme Court of India clarified that accused individuals in money laundering cases, appearing in court following summons under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, are not subject to strict bail conditions. The court emphasized that custodial interrogation is necessary for granting custody, and the stricter bail requirements do not apply in such cases. This ruling follows the controversy over the reinstatement of certain bail conditions and has prompted review applications and public criticism.
