Prima facie view under Section 45 PMLA permits prosecution; accused granted bail under Section 480(3) in mining-linked money laundering case

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....The HC found there were reasonable grounds under Section 45, PMLA to proceed on allegations of money laundering linked to illegal mining, while clarifying the Section 45 test requires only a prima facie view based on probability and does not demand proof beyond reasonable doubt; nonetheless, the accused's right to a speedy trial remains potent. Observing an extensive prosecution case (149 witnesses, 221 exhibits, 13,283 pages) and prolonged custody since 19.09.2024, the court directed release of the petitioner on bail in the Special Trial (PMLA) Case No. 06 of 2024 (ECIR No. PTZO/14/2023) upon furnishing a bail bond of Rs.10,000 with two sureties of like amount, subject to conditions under Section 480(3) of B.N.S.S. The petition was disposed.....