New Delhi, 30 April (H.S.): The Supreme Court adjourned hearing on a petition seeking probe into alleged thousands of crores bank fraud involving Reliance Communications and its former promoter Anil Ambani. A bench presided by Chief Justice Suryakant ordered the adjournment.
During Thursday's hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing CBI and ED, stated both agencies filed fresh status reports. Petitioner's counsel Prashant Bhushan countered that the status report's named kingpin remains unarrested despite Anil Ambani being identified as such. Mehta responded agencies cannot explain non-arrests, having submitted status reports.
Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, for Anil Ambani, requested half-hour time to present undisclosed facts never shared with any court. The court assured hearing his submissions post-status report review, with CJI emphasising probe ordered for transparency and fairness.
Previously on March 23, the court reprimanded CBI and ED for probe delays, noting apparent reluctance. It mandated transparent, fair, time-bound investigation.
The court had expressed concern over probe pace despite serious allegations, stressing stakeholder confidence. Mehta informed ED formed SIT while CBI appointed auditors for transactions.
Bhushan highlighted SEBI report's fraud and fund diversion claims yet no concrete action. Mehta noted four arrests already made.
On February 4, the court directed agencies ensure Anil Ambani doesn't leave country; Ambani assured no foreign travel without permission. January 23 notice directed CBI-ED status reports.
Former Union Secretary EAS Sharma filed the PIL. Bhushan alleged agencies avoid probing massive banking fraud and officer complicity—possibly India's largest corporate fraud. FIR filed 2025 involves 2007-08 fraud; petition accuses Anil Ambani firms of public fund conspiracy diversion.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
