New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Thursday allowed the extension of Enforcement Directorate Director Sanjay Mishra’s tenure till September 15.  

The central government got relief from the Supreme Court as the court has allowed Sanjay Mishra to continue as ED director till 15 September. However, the central government had sought approval from the SC till October 15. 

According to the first order of the court, Sanjay Mishra was to be relieved on 31 July. The Court has said that it is extending the tenure of the ED Director in the larger public and national interest.

During the hearing, the Supreme Court also made strong remarks, “ Is the entire department full of incompetent officers,” the Supreme Court said on the government’s request to extend the tenure of the ED director. 

The Center said that in view of the review by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) led by Continuity is essential. The government told the court, “ED Director Mishra is not indispensable, but his presence is necessary for the Financial Action Task Force review exercise.” His continuity is necessary for the post of ED chief.

Days after the Court set aside Sanjay Kumar Mishra’s extension of tenure as illegal, the Center on Wednesday moved the apex court to allow him to continue in office till October 15 in view of the ongoing Financial Action Task Force (FATF) review. 

The Supreme Court, in its order on July 11, held Mishra’s third extension to be illegal and reduced his extended tenure to July 31. A bench of Justice Gavai, Justice Vikram Nath, and Justice Sanjay Karol had said that Mishra’s tenure would be till July 31 in view of the review to be carried out by the FATF this year and to facilitate the new reinstatement in the post.