On Tuesday, the Delhi High Court, the Directorate of Enforcement (ED) opposed the bail plea of Christian Michel James, a British national accused of playing the middleman in the infamous Rs 3,600-crore AgustaWestland helicopter scam. Michel faces charges of money laundering tied to alleged bribes paid during the controversial helicopter deal.
Michel’s defence lawyer argued that his prolonged custody was unjustified, considering the trial’s unlikely commencement in the near future. “Even if convicted, he would face a maximum sentence of seven years. He has already spent six years in custody,” the defence stated, making a strong case for bail.
Countering these claims, the ED’s counsel asserted that Michel poses a significant flight risk due to his international ties and the severity of the allegations. “The gravity of the charges against him necessitates denial of bail,” argued the ED.
The case, which has captured international attention, remains under scrutiny for its alleged web of high-profile connections and financial misconduct. Justice Dinesh Kumar Sharma of the Delhi High Court has scheduled further arguments for January 10, 2025.
Michel’s current bail plea is not his first. In September, the Delhi High Court rejected his bail plea in a related CBI case. Earlier, the Supreme Court had also denied bail, emphasizing the gravity of the allegations and Michel’s alleged lack of cooperation during the investigation.
Michel’s troubles began with the issuance of Non-Bailable Warrants (NBWs) in 2015, followed by a Red Corner Notice. Arrested in Dubai, he was extradited to India on December 4, 2018, in a high-profile operation.
The trial court has previously noted Michel’s unwillingness to voluntarily appear before the court or cooperate with investigative agencies. This history, coupled with his international ties, has been cited as a basis for denying him parity with other accused individuals who were granted bail.
The AgustaWestland scam, involving allegations of kickbacks and corruption at the highest levels, continues to be a flashpoint in India’s legal and political discourse. The coming months promise more intense courtroom battles as Christian Michel’s fate hangs in the balance.
