New Delhi, Jan 15 (UNI) The Supreme Court today granted interim bail to former Minister Kawasi Lakhma and other accused in connection with the multi-crore liquor scam, while directing that their petitions be listed along with the main matters for detailed consideration.
A Bench led by the Chief Justice of India, Justice Surya Kant, heard the bail pleas and ordered the release of the petitioners on interim bail.
At the same time, the Court indicated that the issues raised would be examined comprehensively at the time of the final hearing.
Senior Advocate Mahesh Jethmalani, appearing for the State, opposed an expedited hearing and submitted that the investigation is still underway.
He contended that the case involves the alleged misappropriation of public funds with the involvement of ministers, political workers, and senior public servants, and asserted that the accused had caused serious loss to the public exchequer.
Referring to the affidavit placed on record, the Chief Justice noted the allegation that the petitioner had received Rs 64 crore as commission, of which Rs 4.6 crore was allegedly used for party-related activities and around Rs 10 crore for personal assets, including houses belonging to him and his son.
The Bench also observed that the allegations against certain officers, including Ms. Sahu, were stated to be of greater gravity.
Senior Advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for the petitioner, submitted that several accused persons are already on bail and pointed out that more than 1,100 witnesses have been examined and six charge sheets filed. He questioned the justification for continued custody at this stage of the proceedings.
While granting interim bail, the Court underscored the seriousness of the allegations and observed that the matter involves alleged involvement at the “highest levels.”
The Bench clarified that the main matters will be taken up for full hearing in due course.
