2G case: SC dismisses Essar, Ruias plea for magisterial trial

They had contented that since they are not charged under Prevention of Corruption Act, Special 2G Court had no jurisdiction to prosecute them

The Supreme Court today dismissed pleas of Essar Teleholdings Ltd and its promoters challenging the Special CBI court's jurisdiction to hold trial against them in a case arising out of the 2G spectrum scam probe. 

"We dismiss the appeals and the writ petition," a bench comprising Chief Justice H L Dattu and justices A K Sikri and R Nariman said. 

The apex court had on September 22 reserved its verdict on a petition filed by the company and its promoters Ravi and Anshuman Ruia.

The petition had said that since there is no offence made out against them under Prevention of Corruption Act, Special 2G Court had no jurisdiction to prosecute them in the case. 

They had submitted that the magisterial court had the jurisdiction to try them as they have been only charge sheeted for conspiracy and cheating under sections 120B and 420 of the IPC, respectively. 

The CBI had opposed their plea, saying the company and its promoters were trying to scuttle the trial that was in an advanced stage. 

The CBI had also opposed their second plea for joint trial with other accused in the main 2G spectrum scam case involving former Telecom Minister A Raja, saying this will amount to further delaying of criminal proceedings for four more years.