A Delhi court on Tuesday granted bail to Robert Vadra, the husband of Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, in a money laundering case related to a land deal in Haryana. The case, investigated by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), involves allegations of irregularities in the acquisition of a plot in Gurugram's Shikohpur area.
Court's Decision
Additional Sessions Judge Sanjay Garg granted the relief, observing that Vadra had cooperated with the investigation and there was no likelihood of him tampering with evidence or fleeing from justice. The court imposed certain conditions, including that Vadra must not leave the country without prior permission and must appear before the investigating officer as required.
Background of the Case
The ED had registered a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) in 2018, alleging that Vadra and others had acquired a 3.5-acre plot in Shikohpur at a price significantly lower than the market rate. The agency claimed that the land was originally owned by a farmer and was illegally transferred to a company linked to Vadra.
Legal Arguments
Vadra's counsel argued that the ED's case was based on a flawed valuation and that his client had no role in the alleged transaction. They highlighted that Vadra had appeared before the ED on multiple occasions and had not been arrested during the investigation. The ED, however, opposed the bail, stating that Vadra was a influential person and could influence witnesses if released.
Reactions
Following the court's order, Vadra's legal team expressed satisfaction, stating that the bail was granted on merits. The ED is expected to challenge the order in a higher court. The case is part of a series of legal battles faced by Vadra in various land-related cases.
Conclusion
The bail order provides temporary relief to Vadra, but the legal proceedings in the case will continue. The next hearing is scheduled for next month.
