New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Wednesday stepped in to fast-track the investigation into alleged large-scale banking irregularities involving Reliance Communications and other companies linked to industrialist Anil Ambani, directing the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to constitute a dedicated Special Investigation Team for the case.
Expressing concern over the slow pace of the probe and the extent of public funds involved, the apex court said the matter requires focused attention at the highest level. A three-judge bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant, along with Justice Joymalya Bagchi and Justice Vipul Pancholi, instructed the ED to assign senior officers exclusively to the investigation and ensure that it is carried through to its logical conclusion.
During the proceedings, the court addressed apprehensions that Anil Ambani might travel abroad while the investigation is ongoing. In response, his legal counsel assured the bench that Ambani would not leave the country without obtaining prior approval from the court. The assurance was placed on record to allay concerns about the integrity of the investigation.
Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing on behalf of Ambani, told the court that his client is currently in India and is fully prepared to cooperate with all investigative agencies. He stated that Ambani respects the authority of the court and will abide by any conditions imposed.
However, the Union government raised objections to relying solely on assurances. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta cautioned the court by referring to past cases where similar undertakings, he claimed, were not honoured, urging the bench to put effective safeguards in place.
Taking note of submissions from both sides, the Supreme Court said it would ensure that appropriate preventive measures are adopted so that the investigation proceeds without interference or delay. The court underscored that cases involving alleged financial misconduct of this scale demand transparency, accountability, and strict monitoring.
