Today, On 4th February, The Delhi High Court sought clarification from the Supreme Court on who will hear Engineer Rashid’s bail plea. Rashid, who was arrested in 2019, is currently in jail facing charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) in a terror funding case. The legal proceedings have raised jurisdictional questions regarding his bail application. The court’s decision will determine the next course of action in his case.
The Supreme Court on Monday (16th Dec) ruled that the NIA can investigate not only scheduled offences but also non-scheduled offences if a connection is established. The court denied bail to Ankush Vipan Kapoor, accused of smuggling heroin, linking him to a larger smuggling network. Concerns over drug abuse and societal impacts were also highlighted.
The NIA seeks to transfer the case of Engineer Rashid from the MP/MLA court to a Special NIA Court, arguing against potential trial delays. Senior Advocate Siddharth Luthra stated it would take ten days for a High Court response. Rashid, arrested under UAPA in 2019, recently secured an election victory while in custody.
The Supreme Court criticized the Indian government for failing to implement prior directives aimed at addressing sex trafficking. Despite a 2015 order to establish a dedicated investigative body and draft comprehensive legislation, no significant action has been taken, highlighting ongoing concerns about ineffective measures against the issue.
Today(on 4th September), The Delhi High Court has denied Sharjeel Imam’s request for an urgent hearing of his bail petition, with the next hearing set for October 7. Imam’s bail plea, pending for 28 months, challenges a trial court order from April 2022.
Today, On 6th August, The Supreme Court dismissed Sameer Kulkarni’s petition challenging the trial proceedings for the 2008 Malegaon Bomb Blast Case, stating no interference was warranted. Kulkarni sought to question the legal grounds of the sanction under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The trial lacked a valid sanction and the case was ultimately dismissed.
Today(on 26th April), The Calcutta High Court has directed the NIA to investigate the recent clashes in Murshidabad during Ram Navami, considering transferring the case to the central agency. The court’s decision follows a report detailing the use of explosives and weaponry, and it has set a deadline for the NIA to submit its report by May 10.
