The Supreme Court recently has issued a directive to extend the interim medical bail granted to former Maharashtra minister and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Nawab Malik by six months. The decision comes in connection with a money-laundering case against Malik, where the Enforcement Directorate (ED) had accused him of purchasing certain properties at rates lower than the market value.

The bench, comprising Justices Bela M Trivedi and Pankaj Mithal, passed the order after Additional Solicitor General SV Raju, representing the Enforcement Directorate, did not object to the request for an extension. "Temporary medical bail of petitioner extended by six months as prayed for. List the main matter after six months," the Court directed.

This extension follows Malik's initial arrest by the ED on allegations related to the property transactions. Subsequently, a special Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) court took cognizance of the chargesheet in May 2022, prompting Malik to file for regular bail. However, his bail plea was rejected by a Mumbai special court on November 30, 2022, leading Malik to approach the High Court.

The High Court, in July 2023, also dismissed Malik's plea for interim medical bail, leading to his appeal before the Supreme Court. In August 2023, the apex court granted Malik interim bail for two months, emphasizing that the decision was based solely on his medical condition. At that time, Malik was undergoing treatment for kidney disease and related ailments.

The interim bail was subsequently extended in October 2023 by three months, maintaining a focus on Malik's health concerns. The latest six-month extension further reflects the Court's consideration of the petitioner's medical condition.

It is important to note that the bail granted to Malik is temporary and is not a determination of the merits of the case. The legal proceedings will continue, and the main matter is scheduled to be listed after the six-month extension period.

Case: Nawab Malik vs Directorate of Enforcement & Anr.