Expeditious trial under PMLA guides bail consideration, with liberty to reapply if proceedings do not progress.

Section 44(1)(c) of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 was applied to emphasise the duty to expedite the trial. The Supreme Court declined to grant bail or interim relief at this stage and instead directed the Enforcement Directorate to cooperate with the trial court for an early conclusion of proceedings. The petitioner was given liberty to apply afresh for bail if no substantial progress was made by 31 May 2023, and any such application is to be considered by the trial judge with due regard to the delay in trial and the period of custody already undergone.

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Outcome: Special Leave Petition not entertained at this stage, with directions for expedition of the trial and liberty to seek bail afresh if no substantial progress is made by 31 May 2023.

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