A Mumbai magistrate court has rejected a plea by the former chairman and former vice-chairman of the fraud-ridden New India Cooperative Bank to appear through video conferencing from the United Kingdom. The court observed that such an abysmal display of entitlement by the accused cannot be entertained. It warned that allowing such requests would erode the sanctity of investigations and subsequent trials.
Court's Stance on Video Conferencing
The court clarified that the law permitting appearance via video conferencing is subject to judicial discretion and does not confer an absolute right upon the accused. Former chairman Hiren Bhanu and vice-chairman Gauri Bhanu, accused of embezzling over Rs 122 crore over a five-year period, had sought a stay on the proclamation against them and a waiver of personal attendance. They cited planned travel, medical ailments, and an alleged threat to their lives in India. The couple had left for the UK shortly before the case was registered.
Criticism of Defence Arguments
The court was particularly critical of the justifications provided for staying abroad, describing the defence's arguments as a manufactured narrative. It stated, "The entire application reeks of huge entitlement... They are putting forth a case of personal difficulties and so-called threat to life... However, no such demonstration is on record." The economic offences wing highlighted that despite being ordered to appear by September 30, 2025, through a public proclamation, the two remained abroad.
The court further noted that the issuance of a warrant and proclamation does not imply guilt. It emphasised that raising a false hue and cry of victimisation should be the last resort. The ruling underscores the judiciary's commitment to ensuring that legal processes are not undermined by unsubstantiated claims.
