Delhi HC Stays Conviction of Odisha BJP Leader Dilip Ray, Clearing Path for Election Bid

New Delhi: In a significant development for senior Odisha BJP leader and former Union Minister Dilip Ray, the Delhi High Court has temporarily halted his conviction in a coal scam case, clearing the way for him to participate in the upcoming elections.

The decision follows a petition filed by Ray challenging a 2020 trial court ruling that found him guilty and sentenced him in connection with a coal scam. The High Court’s stay on the conviction is based on Ray’s extensive political career spanning over three decades and the imminent elections in Odisha.

Ray, a former Odisha MLA, expressed his intention to contest the upcoming elections in May, emphasizing his commitment to serving his constituency and the nation. Justice Swarna Kanta Sharma highlighted Ray’s long-standing political career, his age of 71, and the lengthy legal process ahead, indicating that a denial of Ray’s request could have irreparable consequences for his political aspirations.

Previously, on April 5, the court had reserved its verdict on Ray’s plea seeking a stay of conviction by a trial court in a case related to coal block allocation irregularities in Jharkhand dating back to 1999. The Delhi High Court had earlier issued a notice to the CBI on Ray’s appeal and temporarily suspended his three-year jail term on October 27, 2020.