Delhi High Court Reviews Bail Plea of Hari Om Rai in Vivo Money Laundering Case
The Delhi High Court has issued a notice to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) regarding a bail plea filed by businessman Hari Om Rai. Rai, the former Chairman and Managing Director of Lava International Ltd, is involved in a money laundering case linked to the Chinese smartphone company Vivo.
The court has scheduled the bail hearing for October 18, with a writ petition challenging the arrest under Section 19 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) to be heard in November 2024. Senior Lawyer Vikas Pahwa is representing Hari Om Rai in this matter.
Previously, a trial court denied Rai’s bail due to the seriousness of the charges and concerns about his past conduct. Rai defended himself by stating that his meeting with Vivo’s CEO in 2013 was for a potential joint venture that did not happen, and he argued that this does not imply any wrongdoing, especially amid current India-China tensions.
The ED’s allegations involve fraudulent activities related to the creation of companies associated with Vivo, including the use of fake identification documents. The investigation, which began on February 3, 2022, has resulted in several arrests and the seizure of significant cash. The case continues as Rai seeks further legal options.
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Delhi High Court -: The Delhi High Court is a court in India that deals with legal cases in the capital city, Delhi. It makes important decisions about laws and justice.
Bail Plea -: A bail plea is a request made to the court to allow a person accused of a crime to be released from jail while they wait for their trial. It means the person promises to return for their court dates.
Hari Om Rai -: Hari Om Rai is a person who used to be the Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of Lava International Ltd, a company that makes mobile phones.
Vivo -: Vivo is a company that makes smartphones. It is known for its mobile phones and is popular in many countries, including India.
Money Laundering -: Money laundering is a crime where people try to hide where money came from, especially if it was earned illegally. They make it look like the money is from a legal source.
Enforcement Directorate (ED) -: The Enforcement Directorate is a government agency in India that investigates financial crimes, like money laundering. They make sure people follow the rules about money.
Writ Petition -: A writ petition is a formal request to a court asking for a specific legal action. It is used to protect people’s rights and ensure justice is served.