The Punjab and Haryana High Court convened an urgent late-night session following allegations by the Punjab government that key bureaucrats were detained by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The incident arose amidst ED’s ongoing operations at the Greater Mohali Development Authority (GMADA) office.
Emergency Habeas Corpus Petition
Justice Sanjay Vashisht presided over the habeas corpus petition, which was filed by the Punjab government at 10 PM. The petition claimed that IAS officers Vikas Garg and Sandeep Reshi, along with several other senior GMADA officials, were unlawfully confined. The government argued that the raid, which began two days prior, had prevented these officers from returning to their homes since September 22.
Background of the ED Raids
The ED raids are part of an investigation into alleged money laundering activities connected to GMADA. The intensity of these operations prompted the state to seek judicial intervention due to concerns over the legality of the officials’ detention.
Court’s Directives and Immediate Actions
Responding to the petition, the court instructed its Registry to appoint a warrant officer. This officer was tasked with visiting both the GMADA office and the residence of Vikas Garg, who serves as the Principal Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Their role was to assess the situation, specifically checking whether any official charges or predicate offenses were filed against GMADA or its officers.
Furthermore, the court mandated the release of female officials found to be confined, if such action was deemed necessary. The warrant officer was required to prepare and submit a report by 2 PM the following day.
Execution of Court Orders
According to sources, the warrant officer entered the GMADA premises at approximately 2:50 AM and completed their inspection by 5:45 AM. The court order, issued at 10:42 PM, was part of the swift legal response to the state’s allegations.
Legal Representation
The State of Punjab was represented by Senior Advocate Vikram Chaudhari and Additional Advocate General Ferry Sofat.
