On Friday, a special court of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in Mumbai rejected the application for discharge of Sudarshan Valmik Darade in a significant human trafficking and cyber fraud case. The court, presided over by Special Judge Chakor S Baviskar, determined that the prosecution had presented 'more than sufficient material' to frame charges against Darade, whose involvement was evident from the extensive evidence collected. The case, initiated at the Vile Parle police station in March 2024, involves a transnational syndicate that allegedly deceived numerous Indian youths with false job offers abroad. These individuals were reportedly trafficked through Thailand into the Lao People's Democratic Republic, coerced into operating online investment scams, and subjected to severe abuse if they resisted. The court noted that victims were threatened, confined, and even tortured for non-compliance, with some victims managing to contact the Indian embassy for assistance. Despite Darade's claims of being falsely implicated, the court found compelling evidence of his active participation, including emails and contracts linked to his role as CEO of Long Sheng Company. The court concluded that the evidence was adequate to proceed to trial, rejecting the discharge application and allowing for the framing of charges.