The Supreme Court on Tuesday sought to know from the authorities and investigating agencies whether charges of terrorism can be invoked against businessman Mr Hasan Ali Khan, due to his alleged involvement in illegal arms trade that also has national security implications. Mr Khan has also been accused of tax evasion and money laundering.

Earlier, the court was informed of reports of Mr Khan's alleged connections with arms dealers and those possibly involved in terrorism-related activities. The court also told the Government to consider asking the CBI to probe the fake passport case against Mr Khan.

Responding to the court's queries on the transfer of some Enforcement Directorate officials midway through their probe against Mr Khan, the Solicitor-General, Mr Gopal Subramanium, said the officials were on deputation to the ED and were repatriated after their deputation period expired.

He added, however, that the Government will consider all the issues raised by the court including the reinstatement of the ED officials. He also said the court was justified in directing Mr Khan's custodial interrogation.

Meanwhile, senior counsel Mr Anil Divan, representing the petitioner Mr Ram Jethmalani, cited reports and said Mr Khan's life is under threat as he has enough material to expose many influential people.

The petitioners have sought the court's direction to retrieve black money worth over $1 trillion, which has been siphoned off from the country to tax havens overseas. The court will hear the case again on March 18.

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