ED opposes scribe Upendra Rai’s bail plea

New Delhi: The Enforcement Directorate on Thursday opposed the bail application of journalist Upendra Rai, arrested in a money laundering case related to alleged extortion and dubious financial transactions. 

Additional Sessions Judge Rakesh Syal reserved its order for January 19 on Rai's application after hearing arguments from both sides. Special public prosecutors Nitesh Rana and N K Matta, appearing for ED, told the court that the accused may influence witnesses and hamper probe if released. 

In his application, the Delhi-based scribe claimed he was not required for further custodial interrogation and no purpose will be served by keeping him in custody. 

ED told the court that Rai had extorted money from various persons, claiming he had information against them as he was a journalist and that thousands of crore of rupees were extorted. 

Agency's advocate Samvedna Verma also told the court that Rai was influential and he may destroy evidence and flee from justice if he comes out of jail.