In a significant decision, Delhi court has ordered the release of AAP MLA Amanatullah Khan in a money laundering case tied to alleged irregularities in the Delhi Waqf Board. The court concluded that, despite sufficient evidence to continue proceedings, the lack of prosecution sanction prevents a formal trial. Special Judge Jitendra Singh’s verdict on November 14, 2024, declined to take cognizance of the charges against Khan, mandating his release on a bail bond of Rs.1 lakh with surety.
Serving as Okhla’s MLA in Delhi, Amanatullah Khan was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on September 2, 2024, following allegations of financial misconduct linked to the Delhi Waqf Board during his chairmanship from 2016 to 2021. The ED filed a 110-page supplementary prosecution complaint on October 29, 2024, which accuses Khan of laundering money and exploiting his position for personal gain. The agency claims that these actions resulted in financial losses to the exchequer and alleges that Khan laundered ₹36 crore through multiple transactions with his associates.
While the ED’s chargesheet also named Mariam Siddiqui, the court found insufficient evidence against her and dismissed any summons. Khan’s counsel, Rajat Bhardwaj, expressed that the court’s decision to release Khan reflects the absence of sanction, which is essential for moving forward with the prosecution.
This ruling follows a recent trend in high-profile cases where prosecution sanction has played a crucial role in court decisions. As Khan resumes his role in the Aam Aadmi Party, the case raises further discussion on procedural requirements in prosecuting elected officials.
