The Delhi High Court on Wednesday rejected the bail plea of Christian Michel James in the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) case related to the AgustaWestland helicopter scam. Michel, who was extradited from Dubai in December 2018, has been in custody for nearly five years. The alleged scam involves a transaction of about ₹3,600 crore concerning the purchase of 12 VVIP helicopters.
Earlier, the Supreme Court dismissed Michel’s bail plea, ruling that his argument based on serving half of the maximum sentence, as per Section 436A of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), was insufficient to secure his release. Michel had argued that he should be granted bail as he has completed half the prescribed jail term for the charges against him.
While his bail plea in the CBI case has been denied, the Delhi High Court is set to hear the plea in the Enforcement Directorate (ED) case on November 19. Michel has maintained that he is not required for further investigation and is willing to cooperate. However, both the lower court and the high courts have previously denied bail, citing the seriousness of the allegations and the potential risk of absconding. Michel has consistently claimed he did not evade the legal process.
Also Read: Karkardooma Court Acquits Father-Son Duo In 2020 Delhi Riots Case
Apple fans reached Saket’s Apple Store before sunrise, hoping to become among the first customers…
Human rights activist Arif Aajakia raised concerns over Pakistan’s water crisis, military influence and terrorism…
Indian markets opened higher on Friday, led by positive global cues and gains in metal,…
Starlink is growing by nearly nine satellites a day on average, with SpaceX deploying them…
Police arrested a 42-year-old woman in Bajhang after a video allegedly showing her throwing a…
Delhi-NCR may receive light to moderate rain on Friday, with temperatures up to 35°C and…