In a recent development, the Supreme Court has granted interim bail to M. Sivasankar, the former Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister of Kerala, for two months on medical grounds. Sivasankar is facing money laundering charges in connection with the LIFE Mission corruption case, which revolves around the housing project initiated by the Kerala Government for the homeless.
A division bench comprising Justice A.S. Bopanna and Justice M.M. Sundresh granted the bail after considering Sivasankar's plea for medical treatment due to his deteriorating health. The court took into account the recommendation from the Government Medical College/Hospital, Ernakulam, which advised surgery to the spine, and it was decided that post-operative care would also be required.
The Enforcement Directorate, represented by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, opposed the bail plea, stating that Sivasankar's release could potentially impact the ongoing investigation, given his influential position. However, the court rejected this argument and allowed interim bail for medical treatment.
As per the court's orders, during the two months, Sivasankar is strictly prohibited from visiting any place other than the hospital and his residence. The court also cautioned him against misusing his liberty by interfering in the course of justice or attempting to contact any witnesses.
The money laundering case is related to alleged illegal gratification received for awarding the contract work for the LIFE Mission's housing project. The project aimed to build 140 housing units in Thrissur district using funds donated by the UAE Red Crescent, originally meant for Kerala's flood victims.
Senior Advocate Jaideep Gupta, representing Sivasankar, highlighted the severity of his client's health condition, stating that he requires decompression surgery on the spinal cord. The medical team at the Government Medical College Hospital, Kottayam, expressed concerns about Sivasankar's health, even indicating that the surgery could be fatal and should only be undertaken as a last resort.
Previously, Sivasankar's bail applications were rejected by both the Special PMLA Court in Kochi and the Kerala High Court. However, the Supreme Court had granted him the liberty to approach the special court for interim bail in case of a medical emergency during its summer vacation. Subsequently, the special court also declined the bail plea, citing a lack of urgency.
The Apex Court's decision to grant interim bail was met with the consideration of its resumption after the summer vacation. The High Court had withdrawn the case after the Supreme Court reopened, raising doubts about further intervention.
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