**NCP MLA Rohit Pawar Granted Relief in MSCB Scam Case**
A special court in Mumbai has provided relief to Rohit Pawar, an MLA from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and grandnephew of party leader Sharad Pawar, in connection with the Maharashtra State Co-operative Bank (MSCB) scam case initiated by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). Rohit Pawar appeared in court following a summons and was released on bond, agreeing to be present throughout the trial. Despite the ED filing a chargesheet against him and his company, Baramati Agro, he was not arrested during the investigation.
Special Judge SR Navandar highlighted that the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of the Mumbai Police has already submitted a closure report, referred to as a “C summary,” regarding the original offence. The judge emphasized the significance of this closure report, stating that the ED’s case cannot proceed if the predicate offence is closed. The court has scheduled the next hearing for October 8.
The ED opposed the closure report and sought to intervene in the proceedings. Special Public Prosecutor Sunil Gonsalves argued for the intervention, stating, “If the intervention is not allowed, I will not have access to the closure report, which hinders my ability to oppose it.” However, the court denied this request, noting that the ED had previously challenged a similar rejection in the Bombay High Court. The judge remarked, “Make a statement before the High Court. The court has shut the door for you.”
The court is set to begin discussions on the EOW’s closure report on September 18.
**FAQ**
**What is the significance of the closure report in the MSCB scam case?**
The closure report indicates that the original offence has been resolved, which could prevent the ED from continuing its case against Rohit Pawar and others involved.