Today, the Supreme Court granted interim bail to M Sivasankar, Former Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister of Kerala, for 2 Months on Medical Grounds.
The interim bail was granted by a division bench of Justice A S Bopanna and Justice M M Sundresh.
Sivasankar approaches the Top Court seeking bail in a money laundering case in connection with the LIFE Mission corruption case on grounds of ill-health. LIFE (Livelihood, Inclusion and Financial Empowerment) Mission project is a housing project initiated by the Kerala Government for the homeless.
"In the matter of the present nature where some post operative treatment is also required, we are of the view that the applicant be released on bail to avail medical treatment for 2 months. The applicant shall not go to any other place, except the vicinity of his hospital and his home." the Court directs.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta appearing for the Enforcement Directorate strongly opposed the bail stating that Sivasankar is very influential and releasing him on bail will impact the investigation. While in custody he can be taken to the hospital of his choice at his expense and whatever surgery is required can be undertaken, the SG suggested.
'We have bad experience of an interim bail ultimately becoming final bail. He can take treatment, but let him be in judicial custody ' he argued.
The High Court last week was faced with the question as to how far it could interfere in the matter, considering that the Supreme Court had resumed its functioning after the summer vacation. "The interim order was passed by the Supreme Court when it was about to close, in order to consider medical emergency. Now the Supreme Court is opened," the Court had said"
This man will die at any moment. He is a walking time bomb. That is the issue here. We don't need other Rajan Pillais in our State. The percentage of Sivasankar's death is 90%... he is in a critical stage". Sivasankar's counsel had submitted before the High Court.
The money laundering case emanates out of alleged illegal gratification obtained for awarding the contract work for the LIFE Mission's project for building 140 housing units in Thrissur district utilizing the funds donated by UAE Red Crescent, that was meant for the flood victims of Kerala.
Case Title: M. Sivasankar v. UoI And Anr
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