Sandesara–Sterling Group Loan Fraud: Criminal Cases Quashed After ₹5100 Crore Settlement

The Supreme Court quashed criminal proceedings against the accused in the Sandesara–Sterling Group loan fraud case after they agreed to repay ₹5100 crore to banks. The Court carefully considered the seriousness of the alleged fraud but balanced it with the financial recovery for banks. It recognized settlement as a pragmatic solution while stressing that such quashing must be exceptional and accompanied by safeguards. The ruling highlights the interaction between criminal prosecution, financial restitution, and public interest in systemic banking discipline.