‘Premature Bail Undermines PMLA’s Purpose’: Delhi HC Denies Relief to Hong Kong-Based Businessman
HC has denied anticipatory bail to Hong Kong-based Indian businessman in Rs 20.75 Cr PMLA case, noting that granting relief at this stage would interfere with ED’s probe;
The Delhi High Court on Friday, 4 July 2025, refused to grant anticipatory bail to Amrit Pal Singh, a Hong Kong-based Indian businessman, in a money laundering case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
A bench led by Justice Ravinder Dudeja observed that granting bail at this stage could impede the investigation and compromise the statutory objectives of the PMLA.
Singh, who serves as the director of Broway Group Ltd, allegedly received foreign outward remittances amounting to USD 2,880,210 (around Rs 20.75 crore).
According to the Enforcement Directorate (ED), the amount was sent from Indian shell companies under the guise of import payments, but no business activity existed behind the transactions.
While considering the matter, the judge noted that custodial interrogation may be necessary to ascertain Singh’s role in facilitating or benefiting from the alleged money laundering operation.
Dismissing Singh's plea, the Court pointed out that he had continued to remain absent despite repeated summons issued by the ED.
Taking note of the gravity of the allegations and Singh’s non-cooperative conduct, the Court said that the criminal proceedings are still at a preliminary stage and do not warrant interference.
Accordingly, the Court dismissed the bail application.