In a significant ruling from New Delhi, the Supreme Court has granted major relief to Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren in a money laundering probe by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The apex court bench, led by Chief Justice Suryakant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi, stayed all proceedings in the lower court against Soren. During the hearing, CJI Suryakant remarked to ED counsel that the agency has numerous high-profile cases pending and should focus its energy there for better outcomes.
The decision came on Soren’s Special Leave Petition challenging summons issued under IPC Section 174 by a Ranchi court. Earlier, the Jharkhand High Court had upheld these summons, prompting Soren to approach the Supreme Court. The ED had registered the case under PMLA after seizing documents related to 8.86 acres of land allegedly belonging to Soren from one of his associates.
Soren’s advocate, senior counsel Mukul Rohatgi, argued that his client had appeared before the ED thrice but was arrested each time. He contested the validity of repeated summons despite compliance. On the other hand, ED’s lawyer pointed out seven summons ignored by Soren. The bench issued notice to ED and imposed an interim stay, effectively pausing the investigation’s momentum against the sitting Chief Minister.
This development underscores tensions between central probe agencies and state leaders, particularly in opposition-ruled states. Soren’s arrest earlier in the year had sparked political controversy, with JMM alleging political vendetta. The Supreme Court’s intervention now shifts focus back to substantive legal merits over procedural summons. As the case progresses, it could set precedents for handling PMLA probes against public officials.
Legal experts view the CJI’s light-hearted yet pointed comment as a nudge for investigative prioritization. With ED facing criticism for selective targeting, this order reinforces judicial oversight in ensuring balanced enforcement. Jharkhand’s political landscape remains tense, but Soren gains crucial breathing space to govern amid the legal battle.