Delhi Excise Policy case accused faces third degree, HC queries ED for explanation.

New Delhi High Court seeks response from ED on businessman’s arrest in money laundering case

The Delhi High Court has sought a response from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) regarding the arrest and remand of Hyderabad businessman Arun Ramachandra Pillai. Pillai was arrested in connection with a money laundering case related to the alleged excise policy scam in the national capital. He has claimed that he was subjected to third-degree torture methods to extract information from him.

Court asks for response on maintainability of the petition

Justice Swarnakanta Sharma has asked the ED to file a reply regarding the maintainability of the petition challenging the arrest order and remand order. The petitioner’s lawyer argued that these orders were in violation of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

Violation of constitutional rights and coercive tactics alleged

The petitioner stated that no grounds were given to him orally or in writing for the arrest under Section 19(1) of PMLA, which he claims is a violation of his constitutional rights. The petition also highlighted the lack of satisfactory information in the remand orders regarding the ED’s belief in the petitioner’s guilt. It further alleged that the ED used coercive tactics to obtain information in a vindictive manner.

Accusations of third-degree torture

The petitioner, along with other accused, claimed to have been subjected to third-degree torture. They argued that the illegal actions of the ED were enabled by the arrest and remand orders, which should be quashed. The ED’s lawyer argued against the maintainability of the petition.

Bail plea and further hearing date

The court has listed the case for further hearing on November 3, along with the bail plea of the petitioner. Earlier this month, the petitioner had requested bail, stating that there was no basis to keep him in jail. The ED has filed a charge sheet in the case, claiming that Pillai is the son of a legislative councilor and a close associate of another individual. The ED’s money laundering case is related to a CBI FIR.

Summary:

• The Delhi High Court has asked the Enforcement Directorate to respond to a plea challenging the arrest and remand of Hyderabad businessman Arun Ramachandra Pillai in a money laundering case.
• Pillai has alleged that he was subjected to third-degree torture methods to extract information from him.
• The petitioner argues that the arrest and remand orders were in violation of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
• The petitioner also claims a violation of his constitutional rights and alleges that the ED used coercive tactics to obtain information.
• The court has set a hearing date for November 3 and will consider the petitioner’s bail plea.