Bail in money laundering case granted after prolonged custody, delayed trial, and parity with a co-accused.

Bail under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act was granted to the accused after prolonged custody, because the trial had not reached the stage of framing charge and there was no indication of early conclusion. Parity with a similarly placed co-accused who had already been enlarged on bail also weighed in favour of release. The objection based on other criminal cases was not found sufficient on the facts to deny bail. Relief was made subject to conditions requiring cooperation in trial, regular appearance, non-tampering with evidence, and verification of criminal antecedents.

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Issues: Whether the petitioner, ed under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 and in custody since 11.12.2020, was entitled to bail pending trial.

Analysis: The custody period was substantial, the trial had not progressed to the stage of framing charge, and there was no indication of early conclusion of the proceedings. The Court also took note of parity with a similarly placed co-accused who had been granted bail. Bail was opposed on the ground of other criminal cases, but that objection was not found sufficient to deny relief in the facts of the case.

Conclusion: The petitioner was granted bail on furnishing bail bond and sureties, subject to conditions regarding cooperation in trial, appearance, non-tampering with evidence, and verification of criminal antecedents.

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