New Delhi [India], April 23 (TheNewsZ Desk): The Delhi High Court issued a notice on Tuesday regarding a plea filed by Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) against a Lokpal order directing the CBI to investigate the party’s properties. The court also restrained Lokpal of India from taking further steps until the next hearing date.
Justice Subramonium Prasad, after hearing the initial submissions of the esteemed Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, who is representing JMM, scheduled a detailed hearing for May 10, 2024. Sibal, a seasoned legal professional, argued that the properties in question belong to the political party, not Shibu Soren, a point of contention that could significantly impact the outcome of this case.
Furthermore, the bench permitted the CBI to submit its report in a sealed cover to Lokpal but ordered that Lokpal not take further action until the next hearing.
Furthermore, in a display of the court’s commitment to fairness and transparency, the bench sought a response from BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, who lodged the complaint with Lokpal of India. This decision ensures that all parties involved have an equal opportunity to present their case, fostering a sense of justice in the readers.
JMM recently moved the Delhi High Court against Lokpal’s directive for a CBI investigation into two properties allegedly linked to party president Shibu Soren.
The Lokpal issued the order on March 4 based on Dubey’s complaint against JMM Chief and Rajya Sabha MP Shibu Soren, prompting a challenge before the High Court.
Senior Advocates Kapil Sibal and Arunabh Chowdhury contended that the order was erroneous and lacked jurisdiction. The petition, filed by Abhishek Roy, also alleged that the order was issued without giving the petitioner a hearing.
Recently, Lokpal directed the CBI to probe the alleged benami properties associated with JMM Chief Soren within six months. The directive also included an investigation into two properties owned by JMM.
Dubey’s complaint accused Shibu Soren and his family members of corruption and accumulating substantial wealth. Earlier, the High Court dismissed a petition challenging Lokpal’s proceedings.