• Not proper to trouble candidate just before elections: Kerala HC tells ED

    National
    Not proper to trouble candidate just before elections: Kerala HC tells ED

     The Enforcement Directorate summoned Isaac, prompting his plea to challenge the summons before the high court.


    Digital Desk: The Kerala High Court adjourned the proceedings in the masala bond case involving former Finance Minister and CPI (M) Lok Sabha candidate Thomas Isaac to May 22. The court emphasized the inappropriateness of disturbing a candidate during the general elections, which are scheduled for April 26. 

     

    The case pertains to alleged violations of FEMA rules in the issuance of masala bonds by the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board during Isaac's tenure. 

     

    A bench of Justice TR Ravi said, “I think it is not proper to disturb a candidate who is facing an election for representation in Parliament at this stage, especially because only less than a month is available for completing the elections.”

     

    The Enforcement Directorate summoned Isaac, prompting his plea to challenge the summons before the high court. During a previous hearing, the court had asked the ED to provide evidence of illegal conduct by Isaac, which the agency submitted. 

     

    However, the court refrained from disclosing specifics, considering the ongoing investigation and the imminent elections. Isaac has consistently refused to comply with the ED's summons, labelling them as harassment.