The Delhi High Court on Monday dismissed the bail plea of former Finance Minister P. Chidambaram, observing that he is likely to “influence the witnesses” in the INX Media case.

This Court cannot dispute the fact that the petitioner has been a strong Finance Minister and Home Minister and presently, Member of Indian Parliament. He is a respectable member of the Bar Association of Supreme Court of India,” the court said

He has long standing in the BAR as a Senior Advocate. He has deep roots in the Indian society and may be some connections abroad. But, the fact that he will not influence the witnesses directly or indirectly, cannot be ruled out,” said Justice Suresh Kumar Kait, while dismissing Chidambaram’s bail plea.

The court, however, ruled that there is no risk of Chidambaram fleeing and is not likely to tamper with the evidence.