Debate With Arnab: AgustaWestland - WHO LET CHRISTIAN MICHEL GET AWAY?

The Rouse Avenue court on Saturday ordered the release of Christian Michel James from custody in the alleged money laundering case linked with the Augusta Westland chopper deal case. James will remain in custody in the CBI case. A similar bail application is pending in the CBI case.

James had sought release from custody on the grounds that he had completed the maximum sentence of 7 years in custody in the money laundering case. He was granted bail by the Supreme Court in the CBI case and by the Delhi High Court in the money laundering case.

On being informed of the court's decision, Michel said that he was happy and that there were good judges. He also said that he is working on organising his travel documents.

Earlier, Special Judge (CBI) Sanjay Jindal, after hearing initial submissions by the counsel for accused Christian Michel James, sought a reply from the CBI. CBI is to file its reply on December 22.

During the hearing, advocate Aljo K Joseph submitted that the investigation has not been completed in the last 12 years. Christian Michel James has been in custody for the past seven years; the investigation into his involvement remains pending. Premier agencies are investigating the case.

The court asked, "What do you want? Under what conditions can he be released from Jail?"