In a recent development within the INX Media case, a Delhi court has authorized Congress MP Karti Chidambaram to travel internationally. Special Judge Kaveri Baweja approved his travel to Austria and the UK from January 4 to 12 for business events and family reasons.
Karti Chidambaram, implicated alongside his father, former Union Finance Minister P Chidambaram, in the INX Media corruption scandal, has been granted similar permissions in the past without incident. The court highlighted that he had “never abused the concession or liberty granted by the court” on previous occasions. This historical compliance influenced the decision, even as the Enforcement Directorate (ED) voiced concerns about potential misuse of this liberty.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) launched the case on May 15, 2017, alleging that irregularities occurred in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board clearance given to INX Media for receiving overseas funds of Rs 305 crore in 2007 during P Chidambaram’s tenure as Finance Minister. Both father and son face accusations related to this case.
Special Public Prosecutor NK Matta, representing the ED, opposed Karti’s application citing risks of misuse. However, the court’s decision reflects a trust in Karti’s consistent adherence to legal boundaries in his previous travels.
