In a fresh development in the high-profile MNREGA scam case, suspended IAS officer Pooja Singhal has moved the PMLA (Prevention of Money Laundering Act) Court in Ranchi, seeking the release of her passport to facilitate a visit to the United States. The stated purpose of the travel is to assist her daughter with the admission process at an American educational institution.
Singhal, along with her husband Abhishek Jha, has filed a joint plea, which is scheduled to be heard on June 12.
Background: Arrest in the MNREGA Scam
Pooja Singhal, a senior IAS officer from Jharkhand, was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on May 11, 2022, in connection with a money laundering case linked to alleged misappropriation of MNREGA funds during her tenure as Deputy Commissioner in multiple districts.
Her arrest followed a series of ED raids at 25 locations, including her official residence and the premises of her chartered accountant. These operations led to the seizure of ₹19.31 crore in cash, which became central to the investigation.
Bail Granted After 28 Months in Custody
Singhal remained in judicial custody for 28 months before being granted bail by the PMLA special court on December 7, 2024. Her release was made possible under the provisions of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, which allows bail for undertrials who have served more than one-third of the maximum sentence they could face if convicted.
The court noted the prolonged custody and the lack of progress in the trial as grounds for granting bail.
Travel Request Draws Scrutiny
Singhal’s request to travel abroad has stirred legal and public debate, given the gravity of the charges still pending against her. It remains to be seen whether the Enforcement Directorate will oppose the plea. Legal experts suggest the court may require robust assurances regarding her return and continued cooperation with judicial proceedings.
The outcome of the June 12 hearing will be crucial in determining whether Pooja Singhal will be permitted to leave India while the money laundering case against her remains unresolved.
