ED Can Lodge Cases Under PMLA While Relying On Predicate Offences Under BNS, As It Replaced IPC: Bombay High Court

The Bombay High Court has ruled that the ED (Enforcement Directorate) "can lodge cases under PMLA while relying on predicate offenses under BNS (Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita) as it replaced IPC (Indian Penal Code)." This significant legal development ensures the continuity of anti-money laundering enforcement under India's new criminal laws. The Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) relies on underlying "predicate offenses." The court confirmed that once the BNS replaces the IPC, crimes defined under BNS will serve as the basis for PMLA investigations, allowing the ED to continue its operations seamlessly.