Scrutiny Intensifies: ED's Investigative Tactics Under Judicial Lens

The Enforcement Directorate faces severe criticism from the Supreme Court for alleged misuse of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. High-profile cases, including involving a former excise officer, spotlight ED's controversial interrogation methods, low conviction rates, and accusations of overreaching authority, prompting calls for revised investigative procedures.

In recent developments, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has come under intense scrutiny from the Supreme Court over its use of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Incidents involving a former excise officer highlight concerns over potential misuse of PMLA, drawing parallels to the controversial dowry law.

Questions have been raised regarding ED's interrogation tactics, notably a 15-hour overnight session with a former Haryana Congress MLA. The apex court criticized this approach as ''inhuman conduct,'' urging the agency to improve the quality of prosecution and evidence to address low conviction rates in money laundering cases.

Calls for the Enforcement Directorate to conduct investigations using scientific methods have also echoed in the courts. With high courts expressing displeasure over the agency's practices, there is growing demand for the ED to clarify its actions and ensure compliance with statutory provisions.