Review Petitions Against PMLA Judgment Can't Go Beyond 2 Issues : Union Tells Supreme Court

The Supreme Court agreed to review its controversial 2022 Vijay Madanlal Choudhary judgment that upheld several stringent provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). A three-judge bench will reconsider aspects like the broad definition of 'proceeds of crime', reversal of presumption of innocence, and stringent bail conditions under the anti-money laundering law. This development comes after sustained criticism that the earlier judgment gave unbridled powers to the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The review will specifically examine whether these provisions violate fundamental rights and go beyond the legislative intent of PMLA. Legal experts note this could lead to significant modifications in how money laundering cases are investigated and prosecuted in India. The court's decision to reconsider reflects growing concerns about potential misuse of PMLA provisions against political opponents and business rivals. The outcome may redefine the balance between investigative powers and individual liberties in economic offenses.