Court notes lack of direct evidence and prolonged custody; holds trial likely to take time
A Delhi court has granted bail to I-PAC Director Vinesh Chandel in a money laundering case.
The Court noted that the record did not show any direct evidence linking him to the alleged proceeds of crime.
It also held that continued custody was not warranted at this stage.
The case arose from allegations of financial irregularities and money laundering.
The Enforcement Directorate registered the case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.
During the investigation, ED arrested Chandel for his alleged role in handling proceeds of crime.
Chandel’s counsel argued that the prosecution had no substantive evidence against him.
The defence submitted that the record did not show his direct role in the alleged offence.
It also argued that further incarceration would be unjustified.
The prosecution opposed the bail plea.
It argued that the investigation was still ongoing.
It also claimed that Chandel played a role in the alleged financial transactions.
The Court examined the material placed on record.
It found no direct evidence linking Chandel to the generation or laundering of proceeds of crime.
The Court also noted that he had already spent time in custody.
Further, it observed that the trial would likely take considerable time.
The Court applied the settled principles governing bail.
It held that continued detention would not serve any useful purpose at this stage.
The Court also found that Chandel satisfied the conditions required for bail under the PMLA.
Accordingly, the Court allowed the bail application.
It directed authorities to release Vinesh Chandel on bail, subject to conditions ensuring his cooperation with the investigation and presence during trial.
