Sanjay Bhandari: Eased Bail Ahead of Son’s Wedding Amidst Extradition Battle

Sanjay Bhandari, a middleman accused of tax evasion and money laundering, had his bail conditions relaxed to attend his son’s wedding in the UK. Bhandari, who faces extradition to India, was granted temporary leave to reside at a hotel, pending his ongoing appeal against the extradition order.

Sanjay Bhandari, an accused middleman in the defence sector, saw his bail conditions eased on Friday to attend his son’s wedding in south-east England.

The 62-year-old, contesting his extradition to India on charges of tax evasion and money laundering, successfully applied to Westminster Magistrates Court for temporary residence at a hotel between July 7 and 11. This adjustment, consented by the Crown Prosecution Service, reflects an ongoing appeal.

Bhandari, currently under bail conditions as he contests extradition orders issued by UK Secretary of State Suella Braverman last year, gained permission to appeal in March. Justice Pushpinder Saini of the High Court found the grounds for appeal reasonably arguable, setting the stage for a future full hearing.

The case revolves around allegations of money laundering and tax evasion under Indian law, with Bhandari accused of concealing assets and using false documents. Bhandari, denying all allegations, maintains his struggle against extradition initiated by the UK Home Office in 2020.