The Delhi High Court reserved its order on Tuesday regarding the extension of the interim bail granted to Lava’s MD Hari Om Rai on medical grounds. Rai has been arrested by the ED in connection with a money laundering case involving Chinese mobile company Vivo.
Interim Bail in Feb
Initially granted a three-month interim bail on February 16, which is set to expire on May 15, Rai is now seeking a six-month extension due to his heart condition.
Senior advocate Vikas Pahwa, representing Rai, emphasized Rai’s deteriorating health and the imminent risk of heart failure, citing a report from Max Hospital indicating 100 percent blockage in one artery.
Following the submissions from both the petitioner and the Enforcement Directorate (ED), Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma reserved the order, expressing the possibility of requesting a medical report from AIIMS if necessary. The petitioner’s counsel mentioned that medical documents from AIIMS have been provided but need verification by the ED.
Bail on Health Condition
The High Court, in its previous decision on February 16, granted Rai interim bail based on his health condition falling within the category of sickness under Section 45 of PMLA, emphasizing the critical nature of cardiac emergencies. The court underscored the urgency and specialized care required for such conditions, highlighting Rai’s age, heart-related issues, and the need for coronary angiography.
Senior Advocate Vikas Pahwa, along with other advocates, appeared for Rai during the proceedings. Earlier, the trial court had denied interim bail to Rai, stating that his medical reports didn’t indicate a life-threatening condition warranting bail under Section 45(1) of PMLA.
Rai’s plea explained his past business dealings with Vivo China, which didn’t materialize, emphasizing that his involvement ceased after 2014.
Allegations by ED
The ED alleged fraudulent activities by certain Chinese shareholders and directors, leading to the incorporation of Grand Prospect Internation Communication Private Ltd. and other companies. Raids conducted by the Enforcement Directorate seized cash and resulted in the arrest of Rai and others.
The PMLA investigation, initiated on February 3, 2022, revealed allegations of money laundering, leading to the ongoing legal proceedings.
