A special court handling Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) cases in Jaipur on Tuesday dismissed a plea filed by former Rajasthan Public Health and Engineering Department (PHED) minister Mahesh Joshi, who challenged the legality of his arrest in connection with the alleged multi-crore Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) scam.
Court's Observations on Arrest Procedure
Special Judge Rajesh Kumar Dadiya rejected Joshi's application seeking release on the grounds that his arrest was carried out in violation of mandatory legal procedures. The court noted, "Joshi's family members were present when he was taken into custody, and his son was informed about the arrest. His counsel had represented him during remand proceedings."
Arguments from Both Sides
The petition argued that the grounds of arrest and remand were not properly communicated to his family or legal representatives as required by law, rendering the arrest illegal. However, the prosecution maintained that all legal requirements had been complied with and that repeated intimation regarding the arrest and court production had been given to his son.
The court accepted the prosecution's submissions, observing that the arrest memo clearly recorded the grounds of arrest and bore Joshi's signatures. Consequently, the plea was dismissed.
Details of the Jal Jeevan Mission Scam
The case pertains to alleged irregularities in the awarding and execution of contracts under the Centre's flagship rural drinking water scheme in Rajasthan. The ACB arrested Joshi on May 7 after questioning him in connection with the investigation. He was subsequently produced before the court and remanded to ACB custody.
The agency has alleged a criminal conspiracy involving public servants, contractors, and middlemen in manipulating tender processes and extending undue benefits to selected firms. Several other accused, including officials, contractors, and alleged intermediaries, have also been arrested during the probe.
Habeas Corpus Petition in High Court
Meanwhile, Joshi's son, Rohit Joshi, has challenged the legality of his father's detention through a habeas corpus petition before the Rajasthan High Court. The matter is scheduled for hearing on Wednesday.
