‘ED officials expanding their powers day by day’: Madras HC says agency had no power to seal film producer Akash Bhaskaran’s premises

The Madras High Court has sharply criticized the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for sealing Tamil film producer Akash Bhaskaran’s premises. The court ruled that the agency had no legal authority to carry out the action. It warned that ED officials appear to be expanding their powers without proper legal backing.

The case was filed by Bhaskaran, who challenged the ED’s decision to seal his office. The court sided with him, stating that the agency had violated legal procedure. It also stressed that agencies must stay within the bounds of the law.

Court Declares ED’s Move as Unlawful

Justice G Jayachandran delivered the judgment. He stated that ED actions under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) must follow legal procedures. The judge said, “The ED cannot assume powers it does not have.” He explained that sealing premises without clear authority violates constitutional rights.

The court ruled the ED’s action as a violation of Article 21. This article guarantees the right to life and personal liberty. “The law does not give the ED unchecked powers,” the court added.

Larger Concerns About Central Agencies

This judgment goes beyond Bhaskaran’s case. It touches on a broader issue — the growing power of central investigative agencies. In recent years, the ED has taken strong actions across India. These include raids, property seizures, and arrests.

Critics say these moves often happen before any legal charges are filed. This raises concerns about fairness. Many feel that such actions create fear, especially in fields like media and entertainment.

Film Industry Responds

After the verdict, members of the Tamil film industry voiced their support for Bhaskaran. They praised the court’s ruling and called it a step toward justice. Some producers noted that the industry is already under financial stress. They believe unjust legal pressure only makes things worse.

“It’s a relief that the judiciary stepped in,” said one director anonymously. “Professionals cannot work under fear of sudden raids.”

Another producer added, “This isn’t only about Akash. Anyone in the creative field could be affected by misuse of power.”

Legal Experts Welcome the Ruling

Constitutional law experts praised the judgment. They called it a timely reminder of legal limits. Dr. Ananya Ramesh, a legal scholar, said the ruling reinforces the principle of checks and balances. “Agencies must respect the Constitution. Power without limits is dangerous,” she explained.

She also pointed out that the ED’s role is important but must follow due process. “If agencies act as judge and enforcer, it breaks legal order,” she warned.

Pattern of Overreach?

This is not the first time courts have flagged ED’s conduct. In earlier cases, such as the arrest of Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut in 2022, courts questioned the ED’s timing and evidence. Similar concerns have been raised in cases involving journalists, activists, and business owners.

Legal watchers believe these patterns point to a bigger issue. When agencies take harsh action without proof, it hurts trust in the system. Some say that the process itself becomes a punishment.

Need for Clear Rules

Many experts are now urging the central government to introduce clearer rules for agencies like the ED. They argue that current laws offer too much room for personal interpretation. This leads to confusion, and sometimes misuse.

The Supreme Court has also spoken about these issues in the past. It has stressed the need to protect rights like privacy and access to legal help. Courts have asked agencies to follow fair and transparent procedures.

A Case That Sets a Precedent

The Akash Bhaskaran case now stands as a legal milestone. It shows how the judiciary can step in to prevent executive overreach. It also highlights the need for balance between investigation and individual rights.

Bhaskaran, known for his work in Tamil cinema, can now return to work. But the case has started an important conversation. When a powerful agency steps beyond its role, who holds it accountable?

In a democracy, no authority can act without limits. The court’s ruling serves as a reminder that the rule of law must always come first.