Parity-based bail under PMLA may be granted when co-accused are similarly placed and trial is likely to be prolonged.

Under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002, bail may be granted on parity where co-accused similarly or more seriously placed have already obtained bail and the trial is likely to take considerable time. The appellants were not alleged to be involved in the predicate offence, were added through supplementary complaints, and the co-accused on bail were said to be linked to higher proceeds of crime. The large number of witnesses and voluminous documentary record indicated that the trial would not conclude soon. On that basis, bail was granted on parity and the order rejecting bail was set aside.

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Issues: Whether the appellants were entitled to bail on the ground of parity with co-accused and the likelihood of delay in conclusion of trial under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002.

Analysis: The appellants were not alleged to be involved in the predicate offence and were added in supplementary complaints. The co-accused who had already been granted bail were stated to be involved in higher amounts of proceeds of crime than the appellants. The Court also noted the large number of witnesses and the voluminous documentary record, indicating that trial would take substantial time.

Conclusion: Bail was granted to the appellants on parity, and the impugned order dismissing bail was set aside.

Ratio Decidendi: Where co-accused similarly or more seriously placed have been granted bail and the trial is likely to take considerable time, bail may be granted on parity even in proceedings under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002.

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