The Adjudicating Authority of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) on Thursday upheld the Enforcement Directorate's order of attachment of property worth nearly Rs. 50 crore, belonging to Hasan Ali Khan, accused of massive money laundering; and his aide Kashinath Tapuriah. ED officials described the ruling as a major boost to the investigation against the Pune-based businessman and his alleged accomplice.
“Hasan Ali's counsel had pleaded for suspension of the attachment order so that he can approach the High Court. But the Authority refused to grant a stay too,” an ED official said on condition of anonymity.
“This important judgment by the three-member judicial panel in Delhi has strengthened our case. We can soon take possession of the properties located in Mumbai, Pune and New Delhi,” an ED official told
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“The properties include residential premises in the up market localities of Prithviraj Road, New Delhi; Peddar Road, Mumbai; and Koregaon Park, Pune; and premium Porsche, Mercedes Benz cars, etc. owned by Hasan Ali Khan.”
According to the procedure, the ED will have to file a complaint before the Adjudicating Authority 30 days after it issues the attachment order.
“After we file a complaint, a chance is given to both parties to argue their sides. The Adjudicating Authority heard the sides and gave this decision,” the ED official said.
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The ED has said there is a possibility of further attachment of Mr. Ali's property in India and abroad. “In view of these developments, the government is going to send teams of the ED officials to various countries including Switzerland to pursue the Letter Rogatory and to investigate properties and bank accounts abroad.”