Why SC barred ED probe of 'lottery king' Santiago Martin's laptop, device
The Enforcement Directorate is investigating money laundering charges against Santiago Martin, who made headlines for being the largest political donor through electoral bonds between 2014-19

The Supreme Court has directed the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to halt its probe into electronic devices, including laptops, belonging to ‘lottery king’ Santiago Martin, chairman of Future Gaming and Hotels Services Pvt Ltd, facing money laundering allegations. This temporary relief was granted as the apex court considered the broader issues involved in the case, according to a report by The Indian Express.

The top court awarded interim relief to Martin, on its lawyer's argument that unrestricted access (of ED) to seized devices violates privacy and fundamental rights, as they contained personal, business-critical data, including financial details, medical records, passwords, and strategic documents. The court has also put on hold summons issued to Martin for two months.