Delhi High Court Grants Bail in High-Stakes Coal Mining Money Laundering Case

The Delhi High Court has granted bail to Gurupada Maji in a major West Bengal mining money laundering case. The Enforcement Directorate alleged over Rs 2742.32 crore in proceeds of crime. The court noted documentary evidence was secure, proving Maji's involvement in illegal coal mining activites.

In a significant development, the Delhi High Court granted regular bail to Gurupada Maji, who had been in custody for two years in connection with the West Bengal mining money laundering case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The Enforcement Directorate (ED) alleged that more than Rs 2742.32 crore were involved in this significant financial fraud case.

Justice Jyoti Singh, who presided over the case, stressed the importance of documentary evidence held by investigative agencies, ensuring it was not tampered with. Singh asserted, "The ED has not indicated any possibilities of witness intimidation." The court concluded that the investigation related to the accused was complete, facilitating the bail decision.

The bail, granted under the condition of a personal bond of Rs. 5,00,000 along with two sureties of the same amount, follows arguments from Maji's legal representatives highlighting the prolonged judicial custody since June 2022 and the protracted pace of the investigation. The ED's case ties Maji to significant proceeds of crime from illegal coal mining operations.

(With inputs from agencies.)