Overview
- The Madras High Court has reserved its judgment on petitions filed by Tamil Nadu and TASMAC challenging the legality of the Enforcement Directorate's March raids under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
- The ED defended its actions, citing Section 17 of the PMLA, which permits searches based on suspicion of proceeds of crime, and denied allegations of procedural lapses or human rights violations.
- Tamil Nadu and TASMAC alleged the raids were politically motivated and aimed at tarnishing the state government’s image ahead of upcoming assembly elections.
- The court reviewed sealed documents containing the ED's 'reasons to believe' and noted concerns regarding potential delays in forwarding these to the adjudicating authority, as required by law.
- Further arguments are scheduled for April 21, with the Tamil Nadu government expected to deliver a short response before the court delivers its final ruling.