The ED secured prosecution approval for Chidambaram in two money laundering cases tied to foreign investment approvals, clearing the way for trial.

The Enforcement Directorate has submitted prosecution sanction orders to the Rouse Avenue Special Court in New Delhi for former Union Finance Minister P. Chidambaram in the Aircel-Maxis and INX Media money laundering cases, enabling trial proceedings to move forward. The sanction, obtained on February 10, 2026, follows a November 2024 Supreme Court ruling that required prosecution approval under Section 197(1) of the CrPC for PMLA cases. The ED alleges Chidambaram improperly approved foreign investment clearances in exchange for illegal benefits, including Rs 1.16 crore allegedly received by his son through shell companies. The cases, based on CBI FIRs, have been pending since 2018, with the court taking cognizance in 2021. The ED seeks to expedite trials delayed by legal challenges. Chidambaram and his son deny wrongdoing, calling the cases politically motivated.