Bail Battle: Christian Michel James' Fight Against Money Laundering Charges

The Enforcement Directorate opposes Christian Michel James' bail plea in a money laundering case tied to the AgustaWestland helicopter purchase. Despite previous bail in a related case, the ED argues James remains a flight risk. The court awaits a decision on release conditions.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has firmly opposed the bail plea of Christian Michel James, alleged middleman in the notorious AgustaWestland 'scam,' during a Delhi High Court session on Tuesday.

Accused of involvement in a massive Rs 3,600 crore scandal related to the purchase of 12 VVIP helicopters, James has been granted bail by the Supreme Court in the predicate offence investigated by the CBI. However, the ED insists on strict adherence to legal conditions under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act for his bail in the current case.

ED's counsel highlighted concerns over James' flight risk, given his extradition history, while defense pointed out that his passport has expired and he has spent over six years in custody. The court awaits formal submissions from ED on Friday, to determine his release conditions, post the Supreme Court's bail decision in the CBI case.