Registration of an ECIR under the PML Act is not automatic on...

Registration of an ECIR under the PML Act is not automatic on the existence of a predicate offence; the authorised officer must form and record reasons to believe, on the basis of materials in possession, that proceeds of crime exist and Section 3 is attracted. An ECIR is an internal document and the statutory decision to initiate proceedings lies with the Enforcement Directorate, so a High Court cannot compel registration merely because a predicate offence appears to exist prima facie. The writ petition seeking such a direction was dismissed, leaving initiation of proceedings to the Enforcement Directorate's independent satisfaction.