The Rouse Avenue court in Delhi has postponed its decision on Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) MLC K Kavitha’s request for interim bail to April 9. Kavitha, who is currently in judicial custody due to her involvement in an alleged money laundering case related to the Delhi Excise policy, has cited her son's upcoming exam as the reason for seeking bail.
During the hearing, Kavitha's counsel argued that she should be granted interim bail as she falls under the exceptions category according to Section 45 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). This section exempts women from certain bail conditions. Additionally, Kavitha's lawyer emphasised the importance of her presence for her minor child during exam time.
However, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) opposed Kavitha's bail plea, alleging that she tampered with evidence and influenced witnesses. The ED presented evidence suggesting that Kavitha deleted data from her phone after receiving summons, which constitutes destruction of evidence. Furthermore, the ED argued that Kavitha's influence could potentially obstruct the ongoing investigation.
The court heard arguments from both sides, with Kavitha's lawyer emphasising the emotional support a mother provides during a child's exam period. On the other hand, the ED's counsel maintained that there was no medical evidence to support Kavitha's claim of her son experiencing exam anxiety.
The ED highlighted instances where witnesses retracted their statements, alleging coercion by Kavitha. They argued that granting her interim bail could derail the investigation, as she has significant influence and could potentially influence witnesses.
In response, Kavitha's lawyer refuted the ED's claims, stating that her son's elder brother had returned to Spain after a brief visit, leaving her as the primary emotional support for her son during the exams. He questioned the necessity of psychological examination to prove exam anxiety and reiterated the importance of Kavitha's presence for her son during this challenging time.
The court reserved its decision on Kavitha's interim bail plea, with the next hearing scheduled for April 9. The outcome of this decision will have significant implications for Kavitha's ongoing legal battle and the progress of the money laundering investigation.
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