Azam Khan Challenges Arrest in Supreme Court Amid Money Laundering Case
Azam Khan Seeks Supreme Court Intervention
Senior leader of the Samajwadi Party and former minister of Uttar Pradesh, Mohammad Azam Khan, has approached the Supreme Court to contest his arrest in a new money laundering case. On Monday, November 2, the apex court agreed to consider his petition for an expedited hearing, indicating that it would be listed for discussion within the week. Khan's lawyer, Nizam Pasha, made a request for immediate hearing before the court.
Arrest Following Release from Jail
Azam Khan's arrest stems from an incident on October 29. He had recently been released from jail in Uttar Pradesh concerning a dual PAN card case. However, just 40 minutes post-release, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) apprehended him in connection with a new money laundering investigation. This case pertains to alleged financial irregularities linked to the Mohammad Ali Jauhar University in Rampur.
Judicial Custody Ordered
The day following his arrest, a special court in Ghaziabad ordered Khan to be placed in judicial custody for 14 days. According to the court's directive, he is required to remain in custody until November 13.
Details of the Supreme Court Petition
In his petition, Azam Khan has challenged the ED's arrest, seeking to annul the order from the special court that mandated his judicial custody. He has also requested immediate release. After hearing arguments from his lawyer, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court agreed to list the petition for hearing within the week.
Assets Worth ₹426.46 Crore Seized
Prior to Khan's arrest, the ED had provisionally attached assets worth ₹426.46 crore linked to the Mohammad Ali Jauhar University. This action was part of an ongoing investigation into money laundering involving the Maulana Mohammad Ali Jauhar Trust and other related individuals.
Ongoing Investigations
The investigation is focused on financial transactions associated with the university's assets and other related aspects. This situation has unfolded at a time when the Allahabad High Court had recently granted temporary relief to Khan and his son, Abdullah Azam, in certain cases.
Awaiting Supreme Court Hearing
All eyes are now on the proposed hearing by the Supreme Court. The outcome of the petition challenging Khan's arrest and judicial custody could clarify the legal standing in this case.