Section 197 CrPC sanction required to prosecute public servant under PMLA: Supreme Court

The Supreme Court upheld the quashing of a money laundering case against former IAS officer Bibhu Prasad Acharya, ruling that sanction under Section 197 of the CrPC is required to prosecute public servants under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The court emphasized that prior sanction is necessary to ensure that public servants are not unduly harassed for actions taken in the discharge of their official duties. This decision reinforces the protection provided to public servants under Section 197 CrPC and clarifies its applicability to PMLA cases.