HC Questions ED’s Lookout Circular, Allows Journalist Rana Ayyub To Travel Abroad

New Delhi: The Delhi High Court on Monday allowed journalist Rana Ayyub to travel abroad, but with certain conditions.

“Writ allowed, petition disposed, will pass detailed order,” Justice Chandra Dhari Singh said.

Ayyub has been asked to inform investigating agencies where she would be staying and also deposit some money, Hindustan Times reported.

After a lookout circular (LoC) was issued by Enforcement Directorate (ED) against her in a money-laundering case, Ayyub was stopped by immigration authorities at Mumbai airport.

Also Read: ED Attaches Assets Worth Rs 1.77 Crore Of Journalist Rana Ayyub; Know Why

Questioning the ED counsel about the LoC, the judge said: “How do you defend your lookout circular? It is an admitted fact that whenever summon was issued, she replied and appeared before officers. How do you say that she is avoiding investigation? Because for LoC, evidence should be satisfied.”

Opposing the journalist’s writ petition, Additional Solicitor General (ASG) SV Raju — who appeared for the ED – Ayuub had not submitted documents that the agency had sought. “She is saying they are received from Bombay office which isn’t correct. This is a serious matter. Our apprehension is that she may go out and not come back,” he said.

“Fake bills have been provided, prima facie there is a case of cheating. Therefore propensity to flee and not come back. Therefore we are saying explain, sit with us, give us statement and then go,” the ASG further said.