In a major political development, the Supreme Court has refused to provide any urgent relief to Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader K Kavitha, who was recently arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with a money laundering case related to the Delhi Excise Policy. The Court directed Kavitha to approach the trial court for bail and issued notice in her challenge against certain provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The case has been tagged with petitions seeking review of the Vijay Madanlal judgment. The Court, while not commenting on the merits of the case, directed for an expeditious decision on Kavitha's bail plea. These developments have caused a stir in the political landscape, with her counsel highlighting the need for immediate legal recourse.
K Kavitha's Arrest and Supreme Court Response
Background:
K Kavitha, a prominent leader of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on December 11, 2022, in connection with a money laundering case related to the Delhi Excise Policy. The ED had alleged that Kavitha had received illegal kickbacks in exchange for securing liquor licenses in Delhi.
Supreme Court Hearing:
On December 12, 2022, Kavitha approached the Supreme Court seeking urgent relief against her arrest. However, the Court declined to provide any immediate relief. Instead, it directed Kavitha to approach the trial court for bail and issued notice in her challenge against certain provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
Reactions:
Kavitha's arrest and the Supreme Court's response have triggered political reactions. The BRS has denounced the arrest as politically motivated and accused the central government of targeting its leaders. The opposition parties, on the other hand, have welcomed the ED's action and demanded a thorough investigation into the case.
FAQs:
1. Why was K Kavitha arrested?
Kavitha was arrested by the ED in connection with a money laundering case related to the Delhi Excise Policy.
2. What is the Delhi Excise Policy?
The Delhi Excise Policy was a set of regulations governing the sale and consumption of alcohol in the National Capital Territory of Delhi. It was introduced by the Delhi government in November 2021.
3. What are the allegations against Kavitha?
The ED has alleged that Kavitha received illegal kickbacks in exchange for securing liquor licenses in Delhi under the Excise Policy.
4. What is the status of Kavitha's case?
Kavitha is currently in ED custody. She has been directed to approach the trial court for bail and the Supreme Court has issued notice in her challenge against the PMLA.
5. What is the significance of the Supreme Court's refusal to provide urgent relief?
By refusing to provide urgent relief, the Supreme Court has indicated that it will not interfere with the ongoing investigation and trial process. However, it has also directed the trial court to consider Kavitha's bail plea expeditiously.
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