The Supreme Court on Monday came down heavily on the Enforcement Directorate (ED), questioning the agency’s intent in pursuing legal action that appeared to involve political motivations. The observations were made during hearings in two separate matters—one relating to Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s wife in the MUDA case, and the other a suo motu hearing on ED summons issued to lawyers.
The apex court was hearing the ED’s appeal challenging a Karnataka High Court order that had quashed money laundering proceedings against BM Parvathi, wife of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, and Karnataka Urban Development Minister Byrathi Suresh. The case was linked to alleged illegal allotment of sites by the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA). The High Court had on March 7 upheld the trial court’s order to set aside ED proceedings.
CJI BR Gavai Warns ED Over Political Involvement
Chief Justice of India BR Gavai questioned the agency’s decision to file the appeal despite consistent findings by both the trial court and the High Court. “You know very well that the single judge upheld the trial court order,” the CJI said, adding, “Let political battles be fought among the electorate. Why are you being used for it?”
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Justice Gavai further remarked, “Unfortunately, I have some experience with ED in Maharashtra. Please do not force us to say something. Otherwise, we will have to say something very harsh about the Enforcement Directorate.”
