Offence Under PMLA Is Standalone, Can't Have Joint Trial With Predicate Offence Even If Both Are Before Same Court: Madras HC

The Madras High Court held that there should be no joint or simultaneous trial for a predicate offense and money laundering offense under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The ruling emphasized that although both offenses may be related, they are distinct in nature and require separate adjudication. Even if both cases are heard by the same court, the court should consider them independently. The Court's decision aims to maintain the integrity of legal processes under the PMLA, ensuring that a person is not prejudiced by a combined trial that could undermine the fairness of the proceedings.