In a recent development, the Supreme Court has granted interim bail for a period of six weeks to Satyendar Jain, a former minister of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Delhi. The decision comes in light of Jain’s deteriorating health condition, as he was recently admitted to the ICU after collapsing in the bathroom of Tihar Jail, where he has been incarcerated since his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate last year.
Jain, who is facing charges of money laundering in connection with a case investigated by the Enforcement Directorate, has consistently maintained his innocence, alleging that the charges against him are politically motivated. The probe agency has accused him of laundering money through shell companies and acquiring assets with illicit funds.
The bench comprising Justices JK Maheshwari and PS Narasimha granted Jain interim bail on medical grounds. The court directed him to undergo treatment at a hospital of his choice and instructed him to submit his medical records by July 10. Additionally, the court imposed a restriction on Jain, prohibiting him from speaking to the media during the duration of his interim bail, which concludes on July 11.
Senior advocate Abhishek Singhvi, representing Jain, informed the court about the former minister’s health condition, stating that he had lost 35 kilograms and was suffering from a spinal problem. This was the second instance in a week where Jain had to be hospitalized due to health issues arising from injuries sustained in the jail’s bathroom.
The Additional Solicitor General SV Raju, appearing on behalf of the Enforcement Directorate, requested that Jain undergo an examination by a panel of doctors at either the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) or Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital. Raju further stated that if the medical reports recommended treatment, the probe agency would not oppose it.
Satyendar Jain had been a prominent member of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s cabinet, holding several key portfolios, including health, home, and urban development. He resigned from his ministerial posts in January this year while still in jail.
The Supreme Court’s decision to grant interim bail to Satyendar Jain highlights the importance of ensuring proper medical care for prisoners and acknowledges the gravity of his health condition. This ruling allows Jain to receive the necessary treatment while his case is pending, and it is expected that the medical reports produced by July 10 will play a significant role in determining the future course of action.
