The Supreme Court has rejected anticipatory bail for Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Amanatullah Khan in a money laundering case linked to alleged irregularities during his tenure as Chairman of the Waqf Board. The bench emphasized that Khan should not be arrested unless substantial evidence is present, cautioning the Enforcement Directorate (ED) against arbitrary arrests under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
The court directed Khan to appear before the ED on April 18, 2024, at 11 am, clarifying that the agency will withdraw its application for a non-bailable warrant if Khan complies with the summons. Expressing dissatisfaction over Khan’s repeated non-compliance with ED’s summons, the court stated, “You have messed up your whole matter by not responding to the summons.”
The apex court’s decision came in response to an appeal challenging the Delhi High Court’s denial of anticipatory bail in the money laundering case related to irregularities in Waqf Board recruitment and property leasing during Khan’s tenure. The High Court had emphasized that public figures, including legislators, must abide by the law and face legal consequences for non-compliance with legal procedures.
Sources By Agencies