Excise Policy Case: Delhi HC To Rule On K Kavitha’s Bail Plea On July 1

The Delhi High Court is set to deliver its verdict on the bail pleas filed by K Kavitha, leader of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi, in cases involving the CBI and the ED related to the Excise Policy.

Key Insights

The hearing is scheduled for July 1, 2024, following a reserved order issued by Justice Swarna Kanta Sharma’s bench on May 28, 2024.

Representing K Kavitha, Senior Advocate Vikram Chaudhari, and Advocate Nitesh Rana presented arguments during the proceedings, with Advocates Mohit Rao and Deepak Nagar also appearing for her. On the opposing side, Advocate DP Singh represented the CBI, while Advocate Zoheb Hossain appeared for the ED.

Both investigative agencies opposed Kavitha’s bail petitions, citing critical ongoing investigations into various aspects, including the alleged involvement of public servants, private individuals, and the flow of illicit funds. They argued that releasing Kavitha on bail could potentially obstruct the investigation process.

Previously In The Case

Earlier, the Delhi High Court had issued notices to the ED and CBI regarding Kavitha’s bail applications in connection with the money laundering case linked to Delhi’s scrapped Excise policy. Recently, the ED filed a supplementary chargesheet in this case at the Rouse Avenue Court, naming K Kavitha and several others as the accused.

In her bail plea, Kavitha highlighted personal circumstances, including being a mother to minor children undergoing medical care. She also alleged political motives behind her implication in the scandal by members of the ruling party.

Kavitha’s plea contested the basis of the ED’s case, arguing a lack of corroborative evidence to support allegations made by witnesses and co-accused under Section 50 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). She claimed her arrest was illegal due to non-compliance with Section 19 of the PMLA.

History

Previously, on May 6, the Rouse Avenue Court had dismissed Kavitha’s bail petitions concerning the CBI and ED cases related to the Excise Policy. Her arrest dates back to March 15, 2024, by the ED, and April 11, 2024, by the CBI.

The investigative actions by CBI and ED stem from findings indicating violations related to Delhi’s Excise Policy, allegedly involving irregularities, undue favors to license holders, and financial losses to the exchequer. These actions reportedly included unauthorized waivers of fees and refunds contrary to established rules.

The case has drawn attention for its implications on governance and financial propriety, with legal proceedings now reaching a crucial juncture pending the High Court’s judgment on Kavitha’s bail pleas.

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