Supreme Court unhappy over ED, CBI probe against lawmakers

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, August 25

The Supreme Court today expressed displeasure over the ED and the CBI not giving any reasons for delay in their investigation against lawmakers. It asked the Centre to provide necessary manpower and infrastructure to the agencies.

The Bench said it would pass a detailed order on the issue even as it maintained that it wasn’t expressing any opinion on their work as it would lower their morale. However, it said they agencies should ensure that trials were completed expeditiously.

While hearing a PIL seeking fast-tracking of criminal trials against lawmakers, the Bench led by Chief Justice of India NV Ramana, however, said, “We are not against withdrawal of cases, if there is malicious prosecution. But this needs to be examined by the high court. If the high court agrees then the cases can be withdrawn.”

The Bench also made it clear that lawmakers can’t be given priority in hearing of criminal appeals. Amicus Curiae Vijay Hansaria told the court that 51 MPs and 61 MLAs/MLCs faced cases under PMLA, while 121 cases were pending in CBI courts.