Delhi High Court Allows Journalist Rana Ayyub To Travel Abroad Subject To Conditions.
(Judicial Quest News Network)
Delhi High Court on Monday allowed journalist Rana Ayyub to travel abroad but with certain conditions.
The plea was filed by Rana Ayyub through Advocate Vrinda Grover, against Enforcement’s Directorate’s action of restraining her from leaving the country, citing apprehensions of evading probe in an on-going money laundering case.
Advocate Vrinda Grover, while arguing for Rana Ayyub, quelled the apprehension that the journalist would not return to India if allowed to travel abroad. “I am taking an Air India plane to London. First my travel is approved and then it is cancelled. The timing is very interesting. The boarding time is 2 p.m. am cleared by immigration then suddenly some confabulation takes place and I am detained in a room. I am told by officers there that ED is going to send me summons. Please see the timing of summons. I have regularly appeared and joined. The summons arrived in my E-mail at 1:46 pm. I have to board at 2:pm.This has all been done in haste, “Grover said.
“She is involved in serious offence. She has misappropriated funds. Money was received not only in Indian currency but in Dollars. As far as she is concerned, we have found that the money for relief work has been siphoned off” the ASG said.
After hearing the parties, Justice Chandra Dhari Singh allowed the writ petition filed by Ayyub, and said that reasons for the same would soon follow.
The judge questioned the ED counsel about the LOC. How do you defend your lookout circular? It is an admitted fact that whenever summon was issued, she replied and appeared before officers. How do you say that she is avoiding investigation? Because for LOC, evidence should be satisfied.” The court said.
Additional Solicitor General (ASG) SV Raju, who appeared for the ED, said the agency had sought documents from Ayyub that was not submitted. “She is saying they are received from Bombay office which is not correct. This is a serious matter. Our apprehension is that she may go out and not come back.” He said.
Justice Chandra Dhari Singh While allowing the petition said that “Deposit some money.Also inform agencies, where you’re staying. Share phone number etc., “the Judge said orally.
Detailed order with conditions soon follows.
