In a significant development, the Supreme Court of India has directed renowned activist Teesta Setalvad and her husband, Javed Anand, to cooperate with the Gujarat Police in connection with an ongoing case involving the alleged misappropriation of funds. The order was issued by a three-judge bench led by Justice SK Kaul in response to the submission of Additional Solicitor General SV Raju, who expressed concerns about their lack of cooperation in the investigation.
The court noted that a charge sheet had not been filed yet, and while acknowledging the concerns raised by the Additional Solicitor General, the bench stressed the importance of cooperation in the investigation process. The order stated, “Charge sheet has not yet been filed. ASG submits that there is an element of lack of cooperation. Be that as it may, the respondents will cooperate with the investigation as and when required.”
Furthermore, the Supreme Court disposed of a plea filed by Teesta Setalvad, which sought the expunction of remarks made by the Gujarat High Court in its February 8, 2019 judgment while granting her anticipatory bail. The bench emphasized that observations made during the bail stage should not impact the trial of the case and made her anticipatory bail absolute.
The case revolves around allegations of fund misappropriation and was registered by the Ahmedabad Crime Branch based on a complaint accusing Teesta Setalvad and Javed Anand of “fraudulently” securing grants of ₹1.4 crore from the union government through their NGO, Sabrang Trust, between 2008 and 2013.
This development highlights the ongoing legal proceedings related to the alleged misappropriation of funds and the significance of cooperation with the investigative authorities. As the case unfolds, it will continue to draw attention from legal experts and activists across the nation.
Sources By Agencies