Court Allows Ukrainian Accused Dictionary Rights Amidst Money Laundering Probe

A Mumbai court granted a Ukrainian woman, ensnared in Torres investment fraud, the use of a translation dictionary in custody. Tazagul Xasatov required the dictionary for understanding charges, challenging her knowledge of English. Despite ED objections, the court underscored her right to comprehend allegations.

A Mumbai special court has permitted a Ukrainian woman involved in the Torres investment fraud case to use an English-to-Russian dictionary while in judicial custody. This decision aids the accused, Tazagul Xasatov, who cited her lack of English proficiency as a barrier to understanding the charges against her.

Judge R B Rote approved Xasatov's request earlier this month, asserting her right to be informed of the allegations, despite opposition from the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The ED contended her familiarity with Hindi and English, given her prolonged stay in India, questioning the necessity of the dictionary.

Nevertheless, Judge Rote found no harm in providing the dictionary, emphasizing a lack of evidence for the ED's concerns about investigation disturbances. Jail authorities were instructed to allow Xasatov access to the translation book, while the case links to the defrauding activities of Platinum Hern Pvt Ltd under the brand Torres Jewellery, accused of laundering cash through hawala operators.

(With inputs from agencies.)