A bench of justices Hrishikesh Roy and SVN Bhatti said that ED has not been able to complete the trial on time despite its assurances to the apex court. The bench recorded that around 350 witnesses in the case need to be examined which would entail substantial time.
The bench recorded that ED had assured SC that trial would be concluded in 6-8 months. The assurance was given by the agency during the first bail plea of former Delhi deputy CM Manish Sisodia.
“While assurance was given by ED on October 20, 2023, on early conclusion of trial within six to eight months, it is seen that as many as 40 persons have been arrayed as accused. The prosecution seeks to examine around 350 witnesses,” the bench observed.
SC noted that Nair has been in custody for 23 months and that trial against him cannot become a punishment.
