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Money laundering case: In a significant development, the Supreme Court has dismissed the regular bail plea of former Delhi Health Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Satyendar Jain in a money laundering case investigated by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The bench of justices Bela M Trivedi and Pankaj Mithal not only rejected Jain’s plea but also directed him to “surrender forthwith,” dismissing any request for additional time.
Jain, who had been out on interim bail since May 26, 2023, had moved the Supreme Court challenging the Delhi High Court’s dismissal of his bail plea in the money laundering case. The Delhi High Court had denied bail, citing concerns about his potential influence to tamper with evidence.
The case against Satyendar Jain stems from allegations by the Enforcement Directorate that he engaged in money laundering through four companies allegedly associated with him. He was arrested by the ED on May 30, 2022, following a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) complaint. The complaint alleged that Jain had acquired movable properties between February 14, 2015, and May 31, 2017, in the names of various individuals, which he could not account for satisfactorily.
The Supreme Court’s decision to reject Jain’s regular bail plea reinforces the seriousness of the allegations against him. The court’s directive for immediate surrender underscores the need for compliance with legal procedures.
Previously, the Delhi High Court’s dismissal of Jain’s bail plea highlighted concerns about his potential to influence evidence. The top court had reserved its verdict on his regular bail plea on January 17, paving the way for this recent development.
