Kanimozhi moves SC seeking bail in 2G case

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam Member of Parliament Kanimozhi and Kalaignar TV Managing Director Sharad Kumar, accused in the 2G spectrum case, moved the Supreme Court on Friday seeking bail.

Kanimozhi, the daughter of DMK chief M Karunanidhi, and Kumar have challenged the Delhi high court verdict rejecting their bail. "We have filed a special leave petition on behalf of both Kanimozhi and Kumar challenging the high court order," senior advocate V G Pargasm said.

The high court had on June 8 dismissed the bail pleas of Kanimozhi and Kumar, saying they have strong political connections and the possibility of them influencing witnesses cannot be ruled out.

Kanimozhi and Kumar, named as accused in the second charge sheet for allegedly taking bribe of Rs 200 crore, were arrested on May 20 after the special court dismissed their bail pleas in the case.

Both Kanimozhi and Kumar have 20 per cent stake each in Kalaignar TV Pvt Ltd, which allegedly received Rs 200 crore through a "circuitous" route from Shahid Balwa promoted D B Realty. DMK chief's wife Dayalu Ammal, who has not been named in the list of accused, owns the remaining 60 per cent shares in the channel.

Kanimozhi and Kumar had moved the high court on May 23 challenging the trial court's order which had rejected their bail pleas. Central Bureau of Investigation Special Judge O P Saini had on May 20 rejected the bail pleas of Kanimozhi and Kumar and ordered their "forthwith" arrest.

They are currently lodged in Tihar Jail. Kanimozhi, who sought bail in the special court on the ground of being a woman, had approached the high court seeking relief citing the need to look after her school-going child who is devoid of her care as his father is working abroad.

Justice Bharihoke had on May 23 dismissed bail pleas of five corporate honchos, including Unitech Group MD Sanjay Chandra and Reliance ADAG MD Gautam Doshi in the case, saying there was a possibility that they may influence the witnesses.