AgustaWestland Scam: Christian Michel Ordered Released from ED Custody, But to Remain Jailed for Separate CBI Case
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A Delhi court has granted Christian James Michel's request for release from Enforcement Directorate (ED) custody in a money laundering case linked to the AgustaWestland VVIP chopper scam. However, Michel will remain in jail due to his involvement in a separate Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) corruption case. Judge Sanjay Jindal, hearing Michel's plea for release, noted that he had been in custody for over seven years and that the mandatory provisions of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) entitled him to be released. The judge emphasized that Michel cannot be detained beyond December 21, 2025. Michel, accused of being a 'middleman' in the defence deal, was extradited from Dubai in 2018 and has been in custody ever since. His lawyers argued that the two investigative agencies have been probing the case for 12 years, and Michel's prolonged detention is a 'mockery of justice.' Although Michel was granted bail in the ED case, he remains in jail due to the CBI charges. In a statement outside the court, Michel expressed his 'enjoyment' of the hearing process. The matter has been listed for further hearing on December 22. The AgustaWestland case revolves around alleged irregularities and kickbacks paid to former defence ministry officials to secure a contract for 12 VVIP helicopters from the British-Italian firm. Michel's release from ED custody marks a significant development in the ongoing probe, but his continued detention in the CBI case highlights the complexities of the case.
