The AT dismissed the appellant's challenge to property...

The AT dismissed the appellant's challenge to property attachment under PMLA, confirming the Adjudicating Authority's decision. The appellant paid Rs. 14,79,816 of Rs. 29,79,816 property consideration through installments during the predicate offence period, constituting proceeds of crime. The total allegation of Rs. 16,99,000 approximately equals the appellant's part payment, establishing nexus between property acquisition and criminal proceeds. The tribunal found no valid grounds for appeal and determined premature release inappropriate with pending scheduled offence trial. While dismissing the appeal as meritless, the AT directed ED to refrain from coercive possession or confiscation steps until criminal trial finalization, except under exceptional circumstances.

---