‘Breathing Air of Freedom After 106 Days’: Chidambaram Out of Jail
Catch all the updates on the INX Media case against P Chidambaram here.
Former Finance Minister P Chidambaram walked out of Tihar Jail on Wednesday, 4 December evening, after over 100 days in custody. Post his release, Chidambaram and his son Karti paid a visit to Congress Interim president Sonia Gandhi at her residence.
This comes after the Supreme Court earlier on Wednesday granted bail to him in the INX Media money laundering case.
He will be attending the Parliament session on Thursday, his son Karti Chidambaram has said.
On 29 November, a special court granted interim bail to all six bureaucrats who were part of the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) which granted approval to INX Media during Congress leader P Chidambaram’s tenure as finance minister.
- SC has set a number of conditions on Chidambaram’s bail including a Rs 2 lakh bond that he needs to furnish
- Chidambaram was arrested by the CBI on 21 August in the INX Media case and was then in ED custody in a related money laundering matter
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SC Dismisses Anticipatory Bail Plea, Says 'Infructuous' After Arrest
The Supreme Court, on Monday 26 August dismissed Chidambaram's plea seeking anticipatory bail in the case registered by CBI, saying that he has been already arrested and the case has now become ‘infructuous’.
Chidambaram's Interim Protection from Arrest By ED to Continue
After extensive arguments from his counsel, Kapil Sibal, P Chidambaram, on Monday remained protected from arrest by ED till Tuesday, 27 August. The court proceedings are set to resume on Tuesday after Sibal submits a rejoinder to ED's counter-affidavit.
Sibal concluded on Monday by submitting two judgments of the Supreme Court which, he said, establish that ‘anticipatory bail cannot be rejected mechanically by a judge, without application of mind.’
Chidambaram's CBI Custody Extended, Appeal to be Heard on Tuesday
The CBI court, after the Supreme Court extended protection from ED arrest, extended P Chidambaram's CBI custody till 30 August.
The former finance minister’s appeal against the CBI court order has now been listed for hearing on Tuesday, 27 August. The matter will be heard after Chidambaram’s petition against ED is heard.
Hearing for Chidambaram's Pleas Begins in Supreme Court
The hearings for the petitions filed by P Chidambaram in the INX media case have begun, with Abhishek Manu Singhvi and Kapil Sibal arguing for Chidambaram.
Following are the petitions listed in the apex court for today:
- Special Leave Petition against Delhi HC order denying anticipatory bail in ED matters.
- Special Leave Petition challenging the order of Special Judge remanding Chidambaram to CBI custody.
Kapil Sibal began the arguments by telling the Court that he has filed an application to secure the transcripts of the interrogation. Justices R Banumathi and Ajjikuttira Somaiah Bopanna are on the bench.
Chidambaram Files Application to Procure Transcripts of ED Questioning
P Chidambaram’s counsel, Kapil Sibal, while beginning arguments for the former finance minister, has filed a fresh application for the procurement of the transcripts for Chidambaram’s ED questioning.
“The application for production of transcript concerns the questioning of P Chidambaram that took place on 29 December 2018 and 21 January 2019,” Sibal informed the Court.
Singhvi Objects to ED Trying to Submit Evidence, Cites ADM Jabalpur Case
Abhishek Manu Singhvi, arguing for Chidambaram, objected to how ED has been trying to submit case diaries and other information, which they claim justifies the denial of bail.
Singhvi, to support his argument, pointed out the ADM Jabalpur case – a case from the time when fundamental rights were suspended. “Even there, such statements were needed to be put to the accused,” Singhvi said.
Charges in FIR Declared Offences After PMLA Amendment in 2009: Singhvi
Singhvi, later brought up the restrospectivity. He said that the charges in the FIR which were declared offences only in 2009, after the PMLA amendment came into force. He said that the charges in the FIR filed by the ED took place prior to the amendment of the PMLA, which was notified in 2009. The alleged acts which were declared as offences as under PMLA amendment took place in 2007-08.
Singhvi Argues Delhi HC Order Based on Distorted Idea of Evasion
Singhvi told the SC bench that the Delhi High Court order, that denied his client P Chidambaram an anticipatory bail, was based on the distorted idea of evasion.
He further supported his argument by saying mentioning the twin factors on grounds of which the high court has denied anticipatory bail are evasion and gravity.
He further said that whatever the agencies want to know, the person can give, as long as he/she is available for questioning.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta interjected Singhvi, saying that they are not opposing this in principle, but the ED wants his custodial interrogation, not custodial confession.
Arguments Continue Over ED's Charges of Evasion
As the court resumed after lunch, Chidambaram’s counsel, Abhishek Singhvi continued his arguments over ED’s charges of evasion on Chidambaram. He said that the suspicion of no corporation or flight risk is baseless since Chidambaram is available for questioning. “Non cooperation or flight risk is if I'm not making myself available for questioning. But here, I'm going whenever I'm being called,” he said.
Further, Singhvi accused the ED of wanting specific answers, as the reason behind the charges of evasion. He also said that hypothetically, an accused can refuse to answer questions because of the right against self-incrimination.
Singhvi Cites HC Order Stating Parliament's Recommendation on Cancellation of Pre-Arrest Bail
Singhvi, while making his case for the high court order that denied anticipatory bail to Chidambaram, cited the high court order, which also stated that the Parliament should be recommended for cancellation of provision of pre-arrest bail in high profile cases.
He further said that the real test in bail has to be the triple test – absconding, non-cooperation, and flight risk.
Singhvi Concludes Arguments
Abhishek Manu Singhvi, after arguing about the charges put forth by the ED, the Gravity of the offence, made his final arguments on the issue of retrospective application of criminal law.
Kapil Sibal takes over arguments in favour of Chidambaram.
Hearing Concludes, SG Tushar Mehta to Argue for ED on 28 August
The court hearing remained inconclusive for the second consecutive day, with Chidambaram’s counsels arguing against the charges levelled by ED and filing an application seeking access to the transcripts of the agency's interrogation of the former Union minister.
The hearing will continue on Wednesday at 2 pm, when Solicitor General Tushar Mehta will argue on behalf of ED.
SC Extends Chidambaram's Interim Protection From Arrest Till Wednesday
The SC on Tuesday extended till Wednesday, 27 August, the interim protection from arrest granted to Chidambaram in the INX Media case.
A bench of Justices R Banumathi and AS Bopanna said it would hear ED's arguments on Chidambaram's two petitions, including the challenge to remand orders, on Wednesday.
Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Chidambaram, filed an application seeking transcripts of the questions asked during the interrogation of the former Union minister.
'Ultimately, Truth Will Prevail': P Chidambaram's Family
P Chidambaram’s family, in a statement, said, “We are distressed to note that the media has been reporting completely wild, unverified and unsubstantiated allegations against P Chidambaram in the last few days. While we understand that the motive of the government to demonise and humiliate Chidambaram, we are deeply saddened that the media is unable to uphold liberty against calumny. One of the fundamental principles of liberty, 'Every person is presumed innocent unless proved to be guilty in a court of law'."
“We challenge the government to produce a shred of evidence in support of one undisclosed bank account, one undisclosed property or one shell company anywhere in the world,” the statement added.
ED Wants Arrest Only to Humiliate Me: Chidambaram to SC
P Chidambaram claimed before the Supreme Court on Tuesday, 27 August that the ED wanted his arrest just to "humiliate" him and asked how he can be painted as a 'kingpin' for an offence with retrospective effect.
Stating that the Prevention of Money Laundering Act(PMLA) was being retrospectively applied against him, Chidambaram also submitted that the ED be asked to produce transcripts of his questioning in the money laundering case.
Money Laundering Trail Can be Erased Before Reaching Court: Tushar Mehta
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, on Wednesday, 28 August, started arguments in favour of the Enforcement Directorate, to get custody of former finance minister P Chidambaram. Mehta, continuing after Chidambaram's arguments said that PMLA offences have two dimensions -predicate offence and laundering. Money laundering is a separate offence independent from the predicate/scheduled offence.
He said that Chidambaram's case is that of money laundering, and that this offence can only be carried out by an intelligent person, since it requires multiple layers of concealment. He further said that money laundering leaves behind a money trail, which is evidence in electronic form and can be erased quickly, even before of it being put in front of the court. Which is why, he said, that evidence can not be shared till prosecution can be completed.
Purpose for Custody is Prevention, Not Humiliation: Tushar Mehta
Arguing his case for Chidambaram’s custody, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta says that the purpose of asking for custody of P Chidambaram in the INX Media case is "prevention, prevention, prevention, with a capital P, not humiliation as Abhishek Singhvi said yesterday”.
Tushar Mehta, Sibal Argue Over Whether ED Needs to Provide Material During Investigation
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta and Chidambaram’s counsel Kapil Sibal argue over whether ED had to provide materials to accused at investigation stage.
Mehta says evidence cannot be shared with accused before filing of chargesheet.
Sibal interjects that he never made the case that accused should be given access to evidence but he should be confronted with it.
Hearing Adjourned Till Thursday, Chidambaram's Protection from Arrest Extended
Hearing in Chidambaram’s plea against ED has been adjourned till 11:30 am on Thursday, 29 August. Chidambaram's appeal against CBI remand will also be heard on Thursday.
Good News That Chidambaram is Arrested: Indrani Mukerjea
Indrani Mukerjea, who turned approver in INX Media case, on Thursday said that former finance minister P Chidambaram’s arrest is ‘good news,’ news agency ANI reported.
'Best Way to Elicit Truth When Accused Not Under Protective Umbrella': Tushar Mehta
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told the SC that the proposition made by Sibal that the court should examine whether an accused has been evasive after examining the questions and answers put to him based on evidence collected is absurd.
He added that if an accused at large is confronted with the evidence collected, then the agency will have exposed its evidence and witnesses and it will give a chance to the accused to tamper with evidence and erase the money trail. He said the SC's decision on this would impact cases against Mallya, Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi, Zakir Naik and also terror finding cases.
If They Had Strong Evidence, They Could Have Arrested Chidambaram: Sibal
Arguing for Chidambaram’s anticipatory bail plea from ED arrest, Kapil Sibal, in the SC, said that if ED had enough evidence, they could have arrested the Congress leader earlier.
“If the facts were so strong, they could have him arrested but they chose to summon him to elicit response and they got response but then they said he's being evasive and non-cooperative,” he said.
Bail Plea Shall be Examined Under Due Procedure: Sibal
Chidambaram’s counsel Kapil Sibal said, “Arrest him (Chidambaram), there is no issue, but if he moves for anticipatory bail or regular bail as is his right, then it shall be examined as under due procedure."
Sibal Concludes Rejoinder Arguments
Kapil Sibal has concluded his rejoinder arguments in the SC. Abhishek Manu Singhvi begins his rejoinder arguments.
Order on Chidambaram's ED Plea on 5 September
The Supreme Court has reserved its order on P Chidambaram's plea for anticipatory bail in case of INX Media case registered by the ED till 5 September.
The Congress leader’s interim protection has been extended till the order is passed.
Petition Against CBI Remand to be Heard on 2 September
The Supreme Court will hear Chidambaram’s petition challenging the 22 August order of the trial court remanding him to CBI's custody, on 2 September.
CBI Asks for Extension of Remand by Five Days
Appearing for the CBI, ASG KM Natraj on Friday, 30 August, prayed for extension of P Chidambaram's remand of the investigating agency by five days.
Should Have Asked for 15 Days' Custody on First Day: Judge to CBI
Responding to CBI counsel’s request for extension of remand by five days on grounds of the “volume of documents” that need to be probed, judge says the counsel should have asked for 15 days of remand earlier.
“Grounds which you have taken for extension are vague. You were very well aware of the volume of documents... You should have asked for 15 days PC on the first day,” the judge said.
Chidambaram's CBI Remand Extended
A special CBI court on Friday, 30 August, extended Chidambaram’s remand with the investigating agency till 2 September.
HC to Hear ED Plea on Cancelling Bail of Karti's CA
The Delhi High Court Friday said it will hear in December ED's plea seeking the cancellation of bail of Karti Chidambaram's chartered accountant S Bhaskararaman in connection with INX Media money laundering case.
The Enforcement Directorate informed Justice Manoj Kumar Ohri that the Supreme Court has reserved its order for September 5 on former finance minister P Chidambaram's petition challenging the Delhi High Court's decision to dismiss his anticipatory bail plea.
SC Hearing Begins, CBI Requests SC to Take up Matter Tomorrow
The Supreme Court, on Monday took up P Chidambaram's plea against his CBI remand in the INX media case. ASG Natraj, arguing for CBI requested the Apex court to take up the matter tomorrow.
However, Chidambaram's counsel objected, saying that the matter is infructuous.
Kapil Sibal, arguing for Chidambaram, further prayed for an interim protection to be granted to the former Finance Minsiter. Sibal said that the court can put him under house arrest if needed but why should he be sent to Tihar, he asked.
SC Directs Chidambaram to Approach Lower Court for Bail Plea, in Police Custody for Now
The Supreme Court Monday asked the trial court to consider the request for interim bail of former finance minister P Chidambaram who has been arrested by the CBI in the INX Media corruption case.
The apex court said that if Chidambaram's request for interim bail is not considered by the trial court Monday itself, the CBI's custody of Chidambaram will be extended for three more days.
A bench of justices R Banumathi and A S Bopanna directed CBI to file its response on Chidambaram's plea challenging the non-bailable warrant issued against him and the subsequent orders of the trial court remanding him in the CBI custody.
Chidambaram's CBI custody is expiring today and he will be produced before the concerned trial court during the day.
Next hearing is on Friday, 6 September.
Aircel-Maxis Case: CBI, ED in Court Oppose Any Protection from Arrest to Chidambarams
In a separate case, probe agencies CBI and ED alleged in a Delhi court on Monday, 2 September, that Congress leader P Chidambaram, as finance minister during the UPA regime, granted approval to Aircel-Maxis deal beyond his capacity which benefitted certain persons and received kickbacks.
Opposing Chidambaram and his son Karti's protection from arrest, the agencies said the two will hamper the probe and sought their custodial interrogation in the cases arising out of the Aircel-Maxis scam.
SC to Hear on Tuesday Chidambaram's Plea Challenging NBW Against Him
SC to hear on Tuesday, 3 September, Chidambaram's plea challenging NBW against him and remand orders of the trial court in the INX Media case.
SC Modifies Its Order of Asking Trial Court to Send Chidambaram to CBI Custody
SC modifies its order of asking trial court to send Congress leader P Chidambaram to CBI custody if it rejects his plea of interim bail and decides to take up the matter again on Tuesday after Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said there would be jurisdictional issue.
Aircel-Maxis Case: Court Reserves Bail Order of P Chidambaram, Son
Special Court reserves order on anticipatory bail plea of P Chidambaram and Karti Chidambaram for 5 September, in connection with Aircel Maxis case by CBI and ED.
CBI Produces Chidambaram in Court, Seeks Further One-Day Custody
CBI brought P Chidambaram in special court at the end of his custody in INX media case. CBI seeks one day further custody of Chidambaram.
Solicitor General Seeks Time to Reply to Chidambaram's Interim Bail Plea
Senior advocate Kapil Sibal moves interim bail application of Chidambaram in INX Media case. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta seeks time to reply to Chidambaram's interim bail plea, says notice be issued to CBI.
SG Opposes Grant of Any Relief to Chidambaram
Special Judge Ajay Kumar Kuhar asks if there was any direction by SC to seek relief and it being decided today itself.
SG opposes grant of any relief to Chidambaram, says personal liberty of every citizen is equal.
INX Media Case: Chidambaram’s CBI Custody Extended by a Day
In INX media case, P Chidambaram’s CBI custody extended by a day. Special Court has also decided to hear the interim bail of Chidambaram on Tuesday, 3 September, after 3:30 pm.
CBI Doesn't Want Custody Anymore: SG Tushar Mehta Tells SC
The hearing in P Chidambaram's petition challenging his CBI custody began on Tuesday, 3 September. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, began his arguments by saying that the bail application was not even filed till the time Senior Counsel Kapil Sibal prayed for direction for the Trial Court to consider the bail plea.
Justice Banumathi, however, expressed the Apex court's inclination to list the matter on 5 September, when P Chidambaram's hearing for protection from ED arrest will also be heard.
Mehta, in rebuttal said that if the matter is listed for 5 September, his argument that the Secial Leave Petition is not maintainable will be rendered infructuous. He further said that the CBI does not want Chidambaram's custody anymore, when Sibal said that the 15 day period of the remand will end on 5 September.
Status Quo to Be Maintained Till 5 September, Says Chidambaram's Counsel
After the CBI said it doesn't want Chidambaram's custody anymore, his counsel argued that the status quo as on Tuesday 3 September to be maintained till 5 September and Chidambaram's legal team will not press for bail before the Trial Court.
SC Maintains Status Quo, to Take Up Matter on 5 September
The Supreme Court on Tuesday, 3 September, said the CBI custody of former finance minister P Chidambaram would continue till September 5 in the INX Media corruption case.
The apex court asked Chidambaram's counsel not to press for the interim bail plea, filed before the trial court on Monday and scheduled to be heard today, till 5 September.
A bench of justices R Banumathi and A S Bopanna said it would on Thursday hear Chidambaram's plea in which he has challenged the non-bailable warrant (NBW) issued against him as well as the subsequent trial court's orders remanding him in the CBI custody.
While posting the matter for hearing on Thursday, the bench said: "We are conscious that we should not usurp the jurisdiction of the concerned trial court".
In CBI Custody, Chidambaram Takes Jibe at Modi Govt Over 5% GDP
Former Finance Minister P Chidambaram, who has been in CBI custody for almost two weeks, took a jibe at the Narendra Modi-led central government over GDP in the first quarter of 2019-2020.
SC Refuses Anticipatory Bail to Chidambaram
The Supreme Court, on Thursday 5 September, denied an anticipatory bail to P Chidambaram in the case registered by the Enforcement Directorate, after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) produced the materials collected by it to the court in a sealed cover. The court said that the investigating agency will be exposing the evidence by producing it before the accused first.
"Production of transcripts of the accused's interrogation is within the domain of the investigating officer," the Court said.
The SC bench also said that anticipatory bail cannot be granted as a matter of right.
It said that the grant of anticipatory bail at initial stages may hinder with the ongoing investigation.
The Supreme Court also said that Chidambaram can apply for a regular bail.
The apex court will also pass an order on his plea challenging the issuance of the non-bailable warrant (NBW) against him and the subsequent remand orders for custodial interrogation issued by the trial court in the corruption case lodged by the CBI.
SC Allows Chidambaram to Withdraw Appeal Challenging CBI Remand Order
After rejecting his plea for anticipatory bail from ED arrest, the Supreme Court allowed P Chidambaram to withdraw his plea challenging the order of the Special CBI Judge remanding him to CBI Custody in the INX Media case.
Delhi Court Dismisses Plea Filed by Agencies in Aircel Maxis Case
The trial court, on Thursday 5 September dismissed pleas filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), further saying that the order will be pronounced at 2 pm today.
The CBI and the ED had urged the Delhi court to defer the 2 pm order on the Anticipatory bail pleas filed by P Chidambaram and his son, Karti.
'Case Based Out of Political Vendetta': Karti Chidambaram After Meeting Father
Karti Chidambaram, after meeting father, P Chidambaram at the CBI Headquarters in New Delhi, said that there is still long a way to go, and we have other legal options.
Relief for Chidambaram, Son in Aircel-Maxis Case
A special CBI court, on Thursday 5 September allowed an anticipatory bail to P Chidambaram and his son, Karti Chidambaram. All the four applications have been allowed and the Court has directed the the two to co-operate in the investigation.
CBI Moves Plea for Judicial Custody
Appearing for the CBI Tushar Mehta moves an application for judicial custody of P Chidambaram in the INX Media case. He also apprised the court on the developments in Supreme Court earlier on Thursday.
Nothing Found Against Chidambaram: Sibal
Appearing for Chidambaram, his counsel Kapil Sibal argues that nothing has been found against the former union minister.
“There is nothing found against me. There is no chargesheet. They say I am a powerful and influential witness but they have no evidence. .. there is no evidence of tampering of evidence,” says Sibal.
Court Reserves Order on Chidambaram's Plea Against Judicial Custody
CBI court reserves order on Chidambaram’s plea against CBI’s custody.
Chidambaram's Judicial Custody Extended
Special CBI court sends Chidambaram to Tihar Jail for 14-day judicial custody under the investigating agency.
Court Allows Chidambaram's Plea for Z Category Security, Other Facilities
CBI court allows Chidambaram's plea or medicines and western toilet in Tihar Jail along with Z security and separate cell with a cot and a bathroom.
Chidambaram to Be Kept in Separate Cell
Director General of Tihar Prison Sandeep Goel said that former union minister P Chidambaram will be kept in a separate cell and will be provided roti, dal and subzi.
He has been brought to Tihar Jail and will be lodged in Jail No 7.
‘I'm Only Worried About Economy’: P Chidambaram Before Leaving for Tihar Jail
Before leaving for Tihar jail, where he will be kept in judicial custody, former Finance Minister P Chidambaram took a jab at the BJP government, reported NDTV.
"I'm only worried about the economy," he said, referring to the current financial slowdown that the country is facing.
Aircel-Maxis Case: Court Adjourns Proceedings Sine Die
A Delhi court adjourns the Aircel Maxis case without assigning a day for a further meeting or hearing.
The matter was listed for arguments on the cognisance of charge sheet in the case. The ED and CBI sought adjournment, asking the matter to be listed for first week of October.
The court, however, said, “Prosecution is seeking date after dates. Matter is deferred sine die. Prosecution is asked to approach the Court as and when the investigation is complete and as and when they receive Letters Rogatory (LRs) from various countries."
SC Refuses to Release for Rs 10 Crore Deposited by Karti for Three More Months
The Supreme Court on Friday refused to release for three more months the Rs 10 crore deposited by Karti Chidambaram with the apex court's registry for travelling abroad.
A bench headed by Justice Deepak Gupta said the amount will continue to remain in fixed deposit for another three months.
Karti, who is facing proceedings in cases like Aircel-Maxis and money laundering matters, had deposited Rs 10 crore pursuant to the condition imposed by the apex court for travelling abroad.
The apex court had in May too dismissed his plea seeking return of the Rs 10 crore.
Chidambaram Spends First Day in Tihar Jail
P Chidambaram on Friday started his day at the Tihar Jail by taking a walk in its courtyard and a light breakfast of tea and porridge, news agency PTI reported quoting sources.
The Congress leader was brought to the jail on Thursday evening and did not get much sleep, the sources said.
He is lodged at the prison's Jail No.7, which usually houses those accused in Enforcement Directorate cases.
The former minister after taking a walk in the prison's courtyard and reading some religious scriptures, had a light breakfast of tea, porridge and milk around 6 am, the sources said, adding that he was also given newspapers.
Oppn MPs Question Investigative Agencies Role in Cases Against Chidambaram
Rajya Sabha members KTS Tulsi and Manoj Jha have questioned the role of the investigative agencies in the action taken against P Chidambaram.
Court Allows CBI to Question Indrani in INX Case
A special court allowed the CBI to question former media baron Indrani Mukerjea, jailed for allegedly killing her daughter, in connection with the INX Media corruption case, in which former Union finance minister P Chidambaram has been arrested.
Indrani Mukerjea and her husband Peter Mukerjea, a co-accused in the murder case of her daughter, are former promoters of the INX Media Group.
The Central Bureau of Investigation on sought the court's permission to question Indrani Mukerjea, saying they want clarity on certain financial transactions as part of the corruption case.
Special CBI Judge J C Jagdale permitted the central agency to question Indrani Mukerjea inside the city's Byculla prison. The 47-year-old former media executive can be questioned between 9:30 am and 12:30 pm, the court said.
Concerned About Economy, Poor Worst Affected: Chidambaram
P Chidambaram, who is currently in Tihar jail, on Wednesday, 11 September, expressed his concerns on economy, via a tweet put out by his family on the former union minister's behalf.
Chidambaram Approaches Delhi HC Seeking Bail, Challenges Remand Order
Former Union minister P Chidambaram, arrested in the INX Media corruption case, on Wednesday approached the Delhi High Court seeking bail. Chidambaram also challenged the trial court order's 5 September order remanding him to 14 days judicial custody in the case till 19 September.
INX Media Case: HC To Hear Chidambaram's Bail Plea Tomorrow
The Delhi High Court has listed the hearing of P Chidambaram's plea in the INX Media Case for Thursday, 12 September, reported ANI on Wednesday. In his plea, Chidambaram had sought regular bail and had also challenged his judicial custody order given by the trial court in the case filed by the CBI.
Court Reserves Order on Chidambaram's Surrender Application for 13 Sept
The Delhi’s Rouse Avenue court on Thursday, 12 September, reserved order on P Chidambaram's surrender application after both parties presented their arguments. The order will not be passed tomorrow.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta appearing for Enforcement Directorate had opposed the surrender plea and sought dismissal of the application.
Chidambaram’s lawyer Kapil Sibal told court that his client can surrender “whenever he wants to, its his right”.
ED told court that Chidambaram's arrest is necessary and will take place at the appropriate time.
Delhi Court Dismisses Chidambaram's Plea to Surrender in INX Media Case
A Delhi court has dismissed P Chidambaram's plea seeking to surrender in the money laundering case.
Special Judge Ajay Kumar Kuhar junked his plea.
'We Wish You Were Back Home to Cut a Cake With All of Us': Karti Chidambaram
Karti Chidambaram on Monday, 16 September, wrote to his father, who is celebrating his 74th birthday in Tihar Jail in Delhi.
“We miss you, your absence tugs at our hearts, and we wish you were back home to cut a cake with all of us,” Karti said.
'At Heart I Feel 74 Years Young, My Thoughts Are on the Economy': P Chidambaram
P Chidambaram on Monday, 16 September, said that at heart he felt 74 years younger and that his thoughts on the day are on the economy as greetings poured in from his party colleagues as well as his son Karti Chidambaram on his birthday, according to PTI.
“I am reminded that I am 74 years old. Indeed I am, but at heart I feel 74 years young. Thank you all, my spirits have been lifted higher,” Chidambaram said, which was tweeted by his family.
In another tweet, he said his thoughts today are on the country's economy.
"... Just one statistic tells the story. Export growth in August was -6.05%. No country has achieved GDP growth of 8% without exports growing at 20% a year," he said.
ED Summons P Chidambaram's Former Private Secy, Seeks Propert Details
Enforcement Directorate has summoned KVK Perumal, formerly Private Secretary to P Chimdabaram for the third time, on September 18, at Lok Nayak Bhavan in Delhi.
The ED has sought answers to 40 questions from KVK Perumal. ED has also sought the property details of his family members and photocopies of their passports.
Cong Leaders Meet P Chidambaram at Tihar Jail
Senior Congress leaders Ghulam Nabi Azad and Ahmed Patel met former finance minister P Chidambaram at Tihar Jail on Wednesday morning, PTI reported, quoting sources.
They were accompanied by Chidambaram's son and Congress MP, Karti. Chidambaram has been lodged in Tihar jail since 5 September on charges of corruption in the INX Media case.
The senior Congress leader, who celebrated his 74th birthday on Monday, is in good health, sources said.
Sibal, Singhvi, Tushar Mehta Reach Court
Senior advocates Kapil Sibal and Abhishek Manu Singhvi and Solicitor General Tushar Mehta have reached the court where Chidambaram will be produced shortly.
Chidambaram Produced Before Court
Chidambaram has been produced before court and the proceedings will begin shortly.
CBI Seeks Extension of Chidambaram’s Judicial Custody
As CBI sought extension of judicial custody of Chidambaram, Sibal objected after the Judge observed that judicial custody may be extended till 3 October.
Sibal also moved an application for medical examination of P Chidambaram, saying that if at all remand is granted, it should be shorter.
Court Allows Chidambaram to Meet Family
Court has allowed Chidambaram to meet his family after Sibal and Singhvi argued that the Congress leader’s health has deteriorated.
Sibal moved an application on behalf of Chidambaram seeking regular medical checkup and adequate supplementary diet during judicial custody in Tihar Jail. He said that Chidambaram is suffering from various ailments and has lost weight during the custody.
Order on Extension of Custody Awaited
The final order on extension of Chidambaram’s custody is awaited as the judge rose following the arguments.
Chidambaram's Judicial Custody Extended
CBI Court extends P Chidambaram's judicial custody till 3 October.
'Chidambaram Hasn't Even Been Given a Pillow': Singhvi Tell Court
The Delhi court extended the judicial custody of Chidambaram after the CBI sought extension of his judicial remand.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for CBI, sought extension of the judicial custody and said there has been no change of circumstance from the day he was first sent to jail.
Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Chidambaram, opposed the investigative agency's plea to extend his judicial custody.
Sibal moved an application on behalf of Chidambaram seeking regular medical checkup and adequate supplementary diet during judicial custody in Tihar Jail.
He said that the 73-year-old Congress leader is suffering from various ailments like coronary artery disease, hypertension, impaired glycemia and has lost weight during the custody.
Sibal, meanwhile, asked for him to be examined at AIIMS.
"Health of any inmate is of concern. Whatever is permissable in law, would be done by the jail authorities," Mehta said.
'Will Set Wrong Precedent in Corruption Cases': CBI Opposes Chidambaram’s Bail Plea
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Friday, 20 September, opposed the bail plea of P Chidambaram in the INX Media case, saying that it will set wrong precedent in corruption cases, reported PTI.
“This is a clear case of betrayal of public trust,” the investigative agency told the Delhi High Court, adding, “The magnitude of financial embezzlement and misuse of high public office disentitles Chidambaram from any relief.”
Sonia, Manmohan to Visit Chidambaram in Tihar Jail Today
Congress Interim President Sonia Gandhi and former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to visit P Chidambaram in Delhi's Tihar Jail on Monday, 23 September.
Karti Chidambaram also visited his father P Chidambaram, earlier in the day.
INX Case: Sonia, Manmohan Meet Chidambaram in Delhi’s Tihar Jail
Congress Interim President Sonia Gandhi and former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh visited P Chidambaram in Delhi’s Tihar Jail on Monday, 23 September.
Sab Accha Hai, Except Unemployment, Job Loss: Chidambaram's Dig at Modi
Former Finance Minister P Chidambaram, who is jailed in the INX Media case, took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Bharat mai sab accha hai' comment.
PM Modi made this comment at the 'Howdy, Modi' event in Texas, US.
Chidambaram Denies CBI Claim of Using FM Office for Personal Gain
Congress leader P Chidambaram, arrested in the INX Media corruption case, on Monday denied in the Delhi High Court that he used the office of the finance minister for personal gain.
In a rejoinder to the CBI's reply on his bail plea, the former finance minister said a a look out circular has already been issued against him and it is preposterous to allege that he is a flight risk and can evade the process of law.
CBI in its reply on Friday opposed Chidambaram's bail plea in the corruption case, saying it is a "gravest case of economic offences" and the magnitude of financial embezzlement and misuse of high public office disentitles him for any relief.
Justice Suresh Kait is scheduled to hear Chidambaram's bail plea later in the day.
Justice Suresh Kait Hears Chidambaram's Bail Plea in INX Media Case
Justice Suresh Kumar Kait is hearing the Plea filed by former Finance Minister and Senior Advocate P Chidambaram seeking regular bail in INX media scam case.
During the hearing, Kabil Sibal on behalf of Chidambaram said, “CBI told me to appear before them within 2 hours at night. No provision says that they can ask someone to appear on that kind short notice.”
'RBI Guv Given Approval in INX Media Case': Kabil Sibal
During the hearing of Chidambaram’s bail plea in the INX media case, Kabil Sibal said, “RBI Governor was given the approval.”
He added that the allegation is that Karti Chidambaram, son of accused influence the secretaries in the ministry to get the clearance of FIBP in the Ministry.
Chidambaram’s Bail Plea Hearing in INX Media Case to Continue Tomorrow
Delhi High Court will continue to hear the arguments tomorrow, 24 September, in P Chidambaram's regular bail hearing in CBI case of the INX media matter, reported ANI.
Concerned Over Continued Detention of Chidambaram, Hope Courts Will Render Justice: Manmohan
“We are concerned with continued detention in custody of our colleague P Chidambaram,” said Former Prime Minister and senior Congress leader Manmohan Singh said in a statement after meeting Chidambaram.
He said that in the country's system of government, no decision can be taken by any single person and all decisions are collective decisions recorded in files.
“If the officers are not at fault, it is beyond our comprehension how the minister who simply approved the recommendation can be accused of committing an offence. If the minister is liable for approving a recommendation, the whole system of government will collapse," he said, reported PTI.
He further said, “We are confident, and we sincerely hope, that the courts will render justice in this case.”
Delhi HC Adjourns Hearing in Chidambaram's Bail Plea to 25 Sept
Delhi High Court has adjourned the hearing in P Chidambaram's bail plea arguments till tomorrow.
Senior advocate and Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing for P Chidambaram, will continue his arguments tomorrow, reported ANI.
Over 5,000 Signatories to Petition for Protecting 'Fundamental Right of Liberty' of Chidambaram
Over 5,000 people including senior Congress leaders have signed a petition to protect the “fundamental right of liberty” of former Finance Minister P Chidambaram, who is lodged in Tihar Jail.
The citizens in their petition have claimed that the INX Media case is “bogus” and said it has been a month since Chidambaram's arrest by the CBI but it is yet to file a charge sheet in the case.
Among the leaders who have signed the petition include Shashi Tharoor and Karti Chidambaram. The Tamil Nadu Congress Committee has urged people to sign the petition and has put out a tweet in this regard.
'Will Serve People Once Harassment by Probe Agencies End': Chidambaram
Congress leader P Chidambaram on Tuesday said he is committed to serve the people and will do so once “harassment” by probe agencies is over.
The former finance minister's family members on his behalf also shared on Twitter the birthday greetings sent to him by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to his village address.
In the letter written in Tamil, Modi greeted Chidambaram on his birthday on 16 September and wished that he continues to serve the people.
Replying to Modi, Chidambaram said, "As you have wished, I want to continue to serve the people. Unfortunately, your investigating agencies have prevented me from doing so.”
Charges Not Grave in Nature: Chidambaram
On Wednesday, Chidambaram told the Delhi High Court Wednesday that the offences of cheating and criminal conspiracy alleged against him are not grave in nature and he should be released on bail.
Justice Suresh Kait concluded hearing the submissions advanced by Chidambaram's lawyers on his bail petition and fixed the matter for Friday when Solicitor General Tushar Mehta will commence his arguments on behalf of the CBI.
Delhi HC Reserves Order on Chidambaram's Bail Plea
Delhi High Court on Friday, 27 September reserved the order on Congress leader P Chidambaram's bail plea after both the parties concluded their arguments in the INX media case, ANI reported.
Chidambaram Denied Bail
The Delhi High Court on Monday rejected the regular bail petition of Congress leader P Chidambaram in the CBI case registered in connection with the INX Media matter.
The high court said that there is no chance of tampering of evidence but a possibility that Chidambaram can influence witnesses.
Chidambaram Moves SC Against Delhi HC Order Denying Him Bail
Chidambaram on Thursday, 3 October, moved the Supreme Court against the Delhi high court order denying him bail and sought an urgent hearing on Friday as the court is on leave the entirety of next week.
Kapil Sibal on Thursday mentioned P Chidambaram's bail plea in court 3 of the Supreme Court. Justice NV Ramana directed that the file be placed before Chief Justice of India for listing.
Justice N V Ramana said that CJI will take a decision later during the day.
CBI Court Extends Chidambaram's Custody
A CBI court on Thursday, 3 October, extended Chidambaram’s judicial custody in the INX Media case till 17 October after the investigating agency moved an application for the same.
SC Issues Notice on Chidambaram's Bail Plea, to Hear Matter on 15 October
The Supreme Court, on Friday, 4 October, issued a notice on P Chidambaram's plea seeking bail in the CBI case against him. The matter will be heard on 15 October.
SC Seeks CBI's Response on Chidambaram Bail Plea
The Supreme Court sought a response from the CBI on a plea by P Chidambaram against the order of the Delhi High Court that dismissed his bail plea.
ED Moves Special Court in Delhi, Seeks Production of Chidambaram
Enforcement Directorate on Friday, 11 October moved a Special Court in Delhi seeking a production warrant of P Chidambaram in the lNX media case. Chidambaram is currently in judicial custody. The ED told the court that Chidambaram's custodial interrogation is required in the INX Media case.
Chidambaram to be Produced in Court on 14 October in INX Media Case
A special court in Delhi orders production of Congress leader P Chidambaram in the INX media case under investigation by the Enforcement Directorate. He will be produced in court on 14 October at 3 pm.
INX Media: Chidambaram Produced Before Delhi Court in ED Case
Congress leader P Chidambaram was produced before the Rouse Avenue Court in Delhi on Monday, 14 October, in connection with the INX Media money laundering case filed by the Enforcement Directorate.
CBI Approaches SC Seeking Clarification on Observations Made by Delhi HC
The CBI on Monday approached the Supreme Court seeking clarification on the observations made by Delhi High Court. The high court had accepted that there is no flight risk against P Chidambaram, while denying him bail in the INX Media case, reported ANI.
ED Seeks Court's Permission to Arrest Chidambaram in INX Media Case
The Enforcement Directorate sought Delhi court's permission on Monday, 14 October, to arrest former Finance Minister P Chidambaram in the INX Media money laundering case, PTI reported.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the agency, told special judge Ajay Kumar Kuhar that there is a finding by the Supreme Court that custodial interrogation of Chidambaram is necessary.
Mehta said that money laundering is a separate offence and moved an application for Chidambaram's arrest and remand.
The plea was opposed by senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Chidambaram, who said that the CBI has already taken remand and ED has no ground since the offence is same.
Court Reserves Order on ED Seeking Chidambaram's Custody
A special court in Delhi on Monday, 14 October, reserved the order on Enforcement Directorate’s application seeking arrest of Congress leader P Chidambaram in the INX Media case. The court will pass the order on Tuesday.
Chidambaram Seeks Bail in SC, Says CBI Wants to Keep Him in Jail to 'Humiliate Him'
Former Finance Minister P Chidambaram on Tuesday, 15 October, sought bail from the Supreme Court in the INX Media corruption case, saying the CBI wants to keep him in custody to humiliate him, according to PTI.
Senior advocate Kapil Sibal and Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing for Chidambaram, told the bench headed by Justice R Banumathi that there were no allegations about the former finance minister or his family members having ever tried to approach or influence any witness in the case.
The lawyers told the apex court that there are no allegations of financial loss or siphoning of funds. They also questioned the findings of the Delhi High Court, which had rejected Chidambaram's bail plea on 30 September, saying it should not have referred to the merits of the case while deciding a bail petition.
The court will hear the arguments of Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who is representing the CBI, on Wednesday.
Chidambaram Produced Before Delhi Court Regarding ED's Plea to Arrest Him
Former Finance Minister P Chidambaram was produced before a Delhi court on Tuesday, 15 October, which is expected to pass an order shortly on the Enforcement Directorate’s plea to arrest him in the INX Media case, PTI reported.
INX Media: Delhi Court Allows ED to Interrogate Chidambaram
A Delhi Court on Tuesday, 15 October, allowed Enforcement Directorate (ED) to arrest Congress leader P Chidambaram with an option to interrogate him first in the INX Media case, according to ANI.
ED Officials Reach Tihar Jail to Interrogate P Chidambaram
Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials reach Tihar Jail to interrogate P Chidambaram after a special court on Tuesday had allowed three ED officials to interrogate him in INX media money laundering case.
Karti, Nalini Chidambaram Reach Tihar Jail
Karti and Nalini Chidambaram reached Tihar jail ahead of P Chidambaram’s interrogation by ED officials.
ED Arrests Chidambaram
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday, 16 October, arrested former finance minister P Chidambaram in the INX Media case after the investigating agency interrogated him in Tihar jail.
INX Media: Judicial Custody of Chidambaram Extended in CBI Case
The court on Thursday, 17 October, extended the judicial custody of former Finance Minister P Chidambaram, arrested by the CBI in the INX Media case, according to ANI.
INX Media: ED Custody of Chidambaram Extended Till 24 October
The Enforcement Directorate custody of former Finance Minister P Chidambaram has been extended till 24 October, in connection with the INX Media case, according to ANI.
Court has allowed the application of Chidambram, seeking western toilet, home cooked food and medicine. Application for separate cell has also been allowed by the court during the period of the custody by Enforcement Directorate.
The judicial custody of Chidambaram in connection with the CBI case of the matter has also been extended till 24 October.
In Jail, Chidambaram Attacks Modi Govt Over 'Economic Indicators'
P Chidambaram on Thursday, 17 October, attacked the government over "economic indicators" that imports and exports are down, and bank credit has declined, which he said means thousands of jobs are lost every month and there is no new investment.
The former finance minister said he has asked his family to tweet, giving two more economic indicators for the people to draw their own conclusions.
CBI Files Charge Sheet Before Delhi Court Against P Chidambaram, Karti, Others
The CBI on Friday, 18 October, filed a charge sheet before a Delhi court against former finance minister P Chidambaram in the INX Media case.
The charge sheet names 14 accused, including the Congress leader's son Karti Chidambaram, Peter Mukherjea and Indrani Mukerjea.
The court had on Thursday allowed the Enforcement Directorate to quiz Chidambaram till October 24 and extended his judicial custody in the INX corruption case lodged by the CBI till the same date.
SC Reserves Order on Bail Plea by Chidambaram
The Supreme Court has reserved its judgement on a plea by Congress leader P Chidambaram in the case lodged by CBI in connection with FIPB approval in INX Media group.
'Unnamed' Person's Statement Crucial in INX Media Case Against Chidambaram: CBI to SC
“A person ‘reasonably in know-how of the things’, and whose identity has been withheld even in the charge sheet, forms a crucial basis of the INX Media corruption case against former finance minister P Chidambaram, his son Karti and others,” the CBI told the Supreme Court.
Belying the belief that former promoter of INX Media Indrani Mukherjea's statement was the basis of Chidambaram's prosecution in the case, the CBI said that the person has stated that he was being “influenced” and “intimidated” by the senior Congress leader when the latter was not under arrest, reported PTI.
SC to Pronounce Verdict on Chidambaram's Bail Plea
The Supreme Court is scheduled Tuesday to pronounce judgement on former finance minister P Chidambaram's plea challenging the Delhi High Court verdict denying him bail in the INX Media corruption case.
Chidambaram was arrested in connection with the graft case on August 21 by the CBI, which has recently chargesheeted him and others, including his son Karti and some bureaucrats, for causing loss to the exchequer by allegedly committing offences under the Prevention of Corruption Act and the Indian Penal Code.
Chidambaram is presently in the custody of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the INX Media money laundering case.
SC Grants Bail to Chidambaram in INX Media Case Registered by CBI
Supreme Court grants bail to P Chidambaram in the INX Media case registered by the CBI. The Congress leader will remain in ED custody till 24 October.
The Supreme Court said that Chidambaram could be released provided he is not arrested in any other case and on the personal bond of Rs 1 lakh. He has to make himself available for interrogation.
Chidambaram Moves Bail Plea in Delhi HC in ED Case
Congress leader P Chidambaram, on Wednesday, 23 October, moved a bail plea in the Delhi High Court, in connection with Enforcement Directorate (ED) case of INX Media. He is currently in ED custody till 24th October.
In the plea, Chidambaram stated that the ED arresting him is mala fide and had been done with the intention to harm the reputation of the petitioner.
ED Seeks 7-Day Custody of P Chidambaram in INX Media Case
The Enforcement Directorate on 24 October requested for a 7-day custody of former Finance Minister P Chidamabaram in connection with the INX Media money laundering case.
This after Chidambaram was produced before a Delhi court in the INX Media money laundering case after the expiry of his custodial interrogation by the Enforcement Directorate.
(Source: PTI)
Delhi Court Extends Chidambaram's ED custody Till 30 October
A Special Court has extended Enforcement Directorate (ED) custody of Congress leader P. Chidambaram till 30th October in INX media case. His health checkup to be done at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS).
(Source: ANI)
Quiet Patriotism Can Defeat Muscular Nationalism: Chidambaram
Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram on Thursday, 24 October said party workers must believe that the BJP can be defeated in elections as calm and quiet patriotism can defeat muscular nationalism.
Taking a swipe at the BJP, Chidambaram, who is in ED custody in a corruption case, said that miracles can happen if people shed their fear.
"Congress workers must believe that the BJP can be defeated in an election. Calm and quiet patriotism can defeat muscular nationalism," he said on Twitter.
INX Media Case: Chidambaram Moves HC, Seeks Interim Bail
Former Union Minister P Chidambaram on Wednesday, 30 October, moved Delhi High Court, seeking interim bail in the INX Media money laundering case on health grounds, according to PTI.
The application was mentioned by senior advocate Kapil Sibal before a bench of Chief Justice DN Patel and Justice C Hari Shankar which allowed it to be listed for hearing on Thursday.
Chidambaram has sought interim relief for six days to enable him to consult and get examined by his regular doctor at the Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, Hyderabad.
Delhi Court Sends Chidambaram to Judicial Custody 13 November
A Delhi court on Wednesday sent senior Congress leader P Chidambaram to judicial custody till 13 November in connection with the INX Media money laundering case. The court rejected the Enforcement Directorate’s application, seeking the former finance minister’s remand for one more day.
The court also directed Tihar authorities to provide Chidambaram with medicines, a western toilet, security and a separate cell. He may be allowed to have home-cooked food in Tihar considering his medical condition, the court further said.
Delhi HC Directs AIIMS to Constitute Medical Board for Chidambaram's Treatment
The Delhi High Court on Thursday directed AIIMS to constitute a medical board comprising of Dr Nageshwar Reddy, who is P Chidambaram’s family doctor, for Chidambaram's treatment in AIIMS.
The Delhi HC also directed AIIMS to submit a report before it on Friday. The AIIMS medical board will sit at 7 pm on Thursday to discuss P Chidambaram's health issues.
Chidambaram had told the HC that he should be granted interim bail on medical grounds in the INX media money laundering case.
Chidambaram Fine, Need Not Be Hospitalised as per AIIMS Report
The Delhi High Court was informed on Friday, 1 November, that former finance minister P Chidambaram, lodged in Tihar jail in the INX Media money laundering case, is fine and does not require hospitalisation.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta read out the report of AIIMS Medical Board, set up on the court's order to examine Chidambaram's health condition, and said the Congress leader does not require a sterile environment.
Justice Suresh Kait, who was hearing Chidambaram's interim bail plea, directed the Tihar jail superintendent to provide clean and hygienic surrounding to the politician and also home-cooked food, mineral water, mosquito protection net and repellant.
The court also directed that Chidambaram's regular medical check up be done.
Chidambaram to be Produced in Court via Video Conference
Former union minister P Chidambaram to be produced through video conferencing in a Delhi court shortly. His judicial custody is ending today in the INX Media money laundering case.
Delhi Court Extends Chidambaram's Judicial Custody Till 27 November
Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court, on Wednesday, 13 November, extended the judicial custody of Congress leader P Chidambram till 27 November in INX Media case.
Delhi HC to Pass Order in Chidambaram's Bail Application on Friday
Delhi High Court will pass its order in the bail application of P Chidambaram in the ED case on Friday, 15 November.
(Source: ANI)
Chidambaram Denied Bail
Delhi High Court denies bail to Congress leader P Chidambaram, who is being probed by the ED in the INX Media case.
SC Notice to ED on Chidambaram’s Bail Plea, Next Hearing on 26 Nov
The Supreme Court has issued a notice to ED on bail plea by P Chidambaram in the INX Media case and posts the matter for hearing on 26 November. This comes after the Delhi High Court denied him bail on 15 November.
Rahul, Priyanka Meet P Chidambaram in Tihar Jail
Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra arrive at Tihar Jail to meet former Union Minister P Chidambaram.
Chidambaram's Counsel Begins Arguments for Bail
P Chidambaram's counsel Kapil Sibal begins arguments before Supreme Court Bench headed by Justice R Banumathi.
'Delhi HC Rejected ED Arguments But Didn't Give Bail': Sibal
The Delhi HC has rejected all the three arguments of ED – likelihood of tampering with evidence, flight risk and influencing witnesses – said Kapil Sibal, adding that the court still went on to reject the bail plea.
'Last Statement Recorded by ED in 2018': Sibal
“The ED has been looking into the case for 41 days but statements were last recorded in 2018,” said Kapil Sibal, arguing for P Chidambaram in his bail plea hearing.
'Am I Ranga Billa?': Sibal Argues for Chidambaram
Kapil Sibal, arguing for P Chidambaram, said that the ED has argued that a “wrong message will be sent to the country,” if he’s granted bail.
'Delhi HC Order a 'Word For Word' Copy of ED's Counter Affidavit': Sibal
Kapil Sibal pointed out in court on Wednesday how findings of Delhi High Court are exactly like those stated in ED’s counter-affidavit.
Abhishek Manu Singhvi Begins Arguments for Chidambaram
Senior Counsel Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing on behalf of P Chidambaram, starts his submission by saying that the only grounds on which Delhi High Court denied bail was ‘gravity’.
The legislature defines gravity with the quantum of punishment it has, and basic demarcation is 7 years or above 7 years.
Singhvi reads how in that judgment, the court notes that the object of bail deliberations is to ensure the accused is there for trial. But, in Chidambaram’s case, he said, court found triple test for bail satisfied, which means he will be there for trial.
He concluded by saying that, in bail matters, the court should refrain from “going into merit.”
INX Media Case: Chidambaram's Judicial Custody Extended till 11 December
Special court extends Congress leader P Chidambaram's judicial custody till 11 December in INX money laundering case.
Case Not Confined to INX Media Case: SG Tushar Mehta
Arguing against Chidambaram's bail plea in INX Media case, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said in the SC, "It's not that P Chidambaram is an innocent man who was kept in the dark. This is not a case confined to INX Media, there are other companies that also applied for FIPB (Foreign Investment Promotion Board) approvals."
These Offences Are Not Committed in Heat of the Moment: SG Mehta
Appearing for the ED, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta on thursday said that the former finance minister's offences have not been committed in the heat of the moment.
"Murder is sometimes committed in the heat of the moment, and bail is granted on some conditions. But economic offences are always pre-meditated and calculated," he said.
SC Reserves Order on Chidambaram's Bail Plea
Supreme Court has reserved its order on bail plea moved by Chidambaram in INX Media money laundering case. It also directed the Registry to accept the three sets of sealed covers from the ED and keep them in safe custody for the perusal of the Court.
Delhi Court Grants Interim Bail to 6 FIPB Officials
A special court on Friday granted interim bail to all six bureaucrats who were part of the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) which granted approval to INX Media.
The officials include former NITI Aayog CEO Sindhushree Khullar
SC Grants Bail to Chidambaram
Supreme Court grants bail to former Finance Minister & Congress leader P Chidambaram in INX Media money laundering case, registered by the Enforcement Directorate.
SC Sets Conditions on Chidamabaram's Bail
The Supreme Court has issued the following conditions on the bail:
- A Rs 2 lakh bond to be furnished, signed by two sureties
- Chidambaram cannot contact any witness
- He cannot travel abroad without permission
- He cannot make press statements regarding case
- He must make himself available for interrogation
Chidambaram Will Attend Parliament Tomorrow
P Chidambaram’s son Karti Chidambaram announced that the former finance minister will attend the Parliament at 11 am on Thursday, 5 December.
“I am very happy that he is going to be back home, I am relieved. He will also be attending Parliament session tomorrow,” said Karti.
Evidence for Cases Against Chidambaram: Nitin Gadkari
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Wednesday said that there is evidence for cases against Chidambaram.
Gadkari told ANI that P Chidambaram filed false cases against him, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah when he was a minister under the Congress rule.
"There is evidence for the cases against him, there have been inquiries, now the matter is sub-judice and the court will take the decision," Mr Gadkari said.
"We have never been vindictive, on the other hand when P Chidambaram was Home Minister during Congress rule, he filed false cases against me, he also filed false cases against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Amit Shah. Later, we all were proved innocent," he added, according to ANI.
Scores of Cong Supporters Gather Outside Tihar to Welcome Chidambaram
Scores of Congress protestors gathered outside the Tihar jail on Wednesday to greet former P Chidambaram on his release from the prison, where he has been lodged for over 100 days.
Even before Chidambaram's release, his supporters had gathered outside Gate No 3 of the prison, bringing traffic to a standstill on the stretch.
Chidambaram's son Karti, who was waiting outside the jail, said he was elated as his father was all set to return home after 106 days.
P Chidambaram Released From Tihar Jail
Congress leader P Chidambaram has been released from Tihar Jail, after the SC granted him bail earlier today.
Can't Comment on Case: P Chidambaram
"I can't comment on case as per Supreme Court's order," Chidambaram reportedly said after leaving Tihar Jail.
“After 106 days of incarceration, not one charge has been framed against me,” he added.
Several Congress workers greeted the former Union minister after he stepped out of the prison. His son Karti welcomed him as he came out of the prison.
Chidambaram Visits Sonia Gandhi
P Chidambaram and his son Karti arrive at the residence of Congress Interim president Sonia Gandhi.
Breathing Air of Freedom After 106 Days: Chidambaram
“I will address a press conference tomorrow. I am happy that I stepped out and am breathing the air of freedom after 106 days,” Chidambaram told reporters after leaving Tihar Jail on bail on Wednesday.