Archive · 14 Jun 2025
ED Withdraws Summons in Care Health ESOP Case
Imagine a company called Care Health gave special stock options to its boss, Rashmi Saluja.
The government is looking into whether this was done correctly.
The ED, a financial investigation agency, wanted to ask a lawyer, Arvind Datar, about his advice on these stock options.
But, the ED decided they didn't need to talk to him.
The lawyer said he shouldn't have to talk about the legal advice he gave because it's private information between him and his client.
The government is also checking if Care Health followed all the rules when they gave out these stock options and had them canceled by the IRDAI.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) withdrew a summons to Senior Advocate Arvind Datar.
The summons related to legal advice Datar gave supporting ESOPs granted by Care Health.
The ED is investigating ESOPs granted to former Religare chairperson Rashmi Saluja.
Datar cited professional privilege, stating lawyers shouldn't testify on legal advice.
The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) had ordered Care Health to cancel unexercised ESOPs.
- Who
- The ED, Senior Advocate Arvind Datar, Rashmi Saluja, and Care Health Insurance are involved.
- What
- The Enforcement Directorate (ED) withdrew a summons to a Senior Advocate regarding legal advice on ESOPs.
- When
- In 2023, the IRDAI ordered the cancellation of ESOPs.
- Where
- The investigation involves Care Health Insurance and Religare Enterprises.
- Why
- The ED is investigating potential irregularities in ESOP grants and possible money laundering.
ED's Stance
Legal Privilege
Investigation Focus
ED's Stance
Investigating potential financial irregularities related to ESOPs.
Legal Privilege
Not applicable
- Company Involved
- Care Health Insurance
- Individual Involved
- Rashmi Saluja
- ESOP Value
- Rs 250 crore
- Legal Counsel
- Arvind Datar
- Regulatory Body
- IRDAI