The criminal original petition filed by ex-minister Anbil Mahesh was heard today. Senior Advocate P Wilson made submissions on behalf of the petitioner. He contended that the required approval under Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act was not obtained by the proper authority making the proceedings against him illegal

The criminal original petition filed by ex-minister Anbil Mahesh was heard today. Senior Advocate P Wilson made submissions on behalf of the petitioner. He contended that the required approval under Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act was not obtained by the proper authority making the proceedings against him illegal. He also submitted that the petitioner has been cooperating with the investigation. It was also pointed out to the court that the Respondent Police has not filed their counter in the case yet. On these grounds, the court may pass orders directing the Respondent Police to not take coercive steps against the petitioner.

Public Prosecutor John Sathyan, on the other hand, submitted that a questionnaire is given to the petitioner and that no coercive steps are taken yet. He sought for time to file counter. The learned judge suggested to file Anticipatory Bail and that he would consider . After Hearing the submissions made by the parties, the matter was adjourned to 12.10.2026 directing the respondent to file their counter.