Delhi High Court Grants Bail to Money Laundering Accused in West Bengal Coal Scam

The Delhi High Court has granted bail to Gurupada Maji, an accused in a coal mining scam in West Bengal, noting his prolonged incarceration of nearly 28 months without trial initiation. The court emphasized the need to uphold Article 21 of the Constitution of India while refraining from delving into case merits.

The Delhi High Court has granted bail to Gurupada Maji, who was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with a coal mining scam in West Bengal. The court noted that Maji has been in jail for over two years, with no trial commencement.

Justice Jyoti Singh emphasized that the prolonged incarceration and potential delay in trial conclude warrant bail under Article 21 of the Constitution. The court abstained from commenting on the case's merits, citing the complexity of the issues involved.

Maji's bail was granted considering recent Supreme Court observations on bail rights in delayed trials. Maji, who has been in judicial custody since June 2022, is required to provide a personal bond and sureties, surrender his passport, and refrain from any criminal activity or witness contact.

(With inputs from agencies.)