A Delhi court has granted relief to British national Christian Michel James, a key figure in the AgustaWestland VVIP chopper scam case. The court, while disposing of his plea, directed that Michel can be released without surrendering his passport immediately. However, the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) must ensure he does not leave the country, and his new passport, if issued, must be deposited before the trial court.
Michel had filed a plea seeking changes in his bail conditions, citing difficulties in securing his release despite being granted bail earlier. His lawyer expressed concerns over the practicality of the court’s order, questioning how Michel could be released without proper documents. Just days ago, another court had ordered his release in a money laundering case, emphasizing his commitment to participate in the trial.
Accused in the alleged Rs 3,600-crore VVIP helicopter scam, Michel faces charges of corruption, criminal conspiracy, and money laundering. Extradited to India from the UAE in 2018, he has been in judicial custody at Tihar Jail. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) alleges a loss of around Rs 2,666 crore to the exchequer in the helicopter deal, while the Enforcement Directorate (ED) accuses Michel of receiving kickbacks amounting to 30 million euros.
