AJAY AJIT PETER KERKAR Vs. DIRECTORATE OF ENFORCEMENT

JUDGEMENT

(1.) Heard Mr. Mirajkar, learned Counsel for the applicant and Mr. Venegavkar, learned Special Public Prosecutor for the respondent no.1.- E.D.

(2.) At the outset, learned Counsel for the applicant has prayed for release of the applicant on bail mainly on the premise that he has undergone 2 years and 340 days in the custody as an under trial prisoner in light of the fact that the maximum sentence under Sec. 4 of the Prevention of Money-Laundering Act, 2002 (for short "PML Act") is 3 years. The charge has not yet been framed and that the prospects of the trial commencing in time in the near future is bleak. As such, dehors merits, Counsel prays for release of the applicant only on the ground of inordinate delay in commencing the trial.

(3.) A few facts germane for disposal of this application are as follows.