WinZO Co-founder Challenges ED Case in Karnataka HC Over Jurisdiction

• WinZO co-founder Saumya Rathore moved Karnataka HC challenging ED's money laundering probe, arguing lack of territorial jurisdiction for its Bengaluru office.
• Rathore seeks quashing of ECIR and PMLA proceedings, stating WinZO's operations, bank accounts, and alleged transactions are all based in Delhi.
• Karnataka HC Justice M Nagaprasanna directed ED not to take coercive action against Rathore until the next hearing on January 14, 2026.
• ED argues it's a pan-India agency, assets worth ₹800 crore frozen, and alleges unfair gaming practices, including use of bots and fund diversion abroad.
• The court's ruling on jurisdiction could set a precedent for investigations involving digital businesses operating across states.

Why It Matters: WinZO co-founder challenges ED's jurisdiction in money laundering probe; HC seeks no coercive action.