A Delhi court waived off conditions from earlier bail order directing Bhim Army Chief Chandrashekhar Azad to not visit Delhi. The court ordered Azad to provide the schedule of his visit to the city to the concerned DCP whenever he visits for medical treatment or for the purpose of elections. Azad was granted bail by judge Kamini Lau on January 15, after 25 days remaining in custody.
Modifying his earlier bail conditions, Additional Sessions Judge Kamini Lau said that election is the biggest democratic festival and he should be allowed to participate in the elections as they are the essential part of a democracy.
“Democracy can’t be a farce, elections have to be inclusive. There’s nothing wrong with political leaders participating in the election process,” said Judge.
An application file by the Bhim Army Chief on January 18, 2020 contended that the leader was not a criminal and imposing such conditions were wrong and undemocratic. The application further stated that since Azad has a local residence in Delhi and being an activist, such restrictions imposed on him, affects his fundamental rights.
“Chandrashekhar Azad is a leader of the oppressed and depressed sections of society, including minorities and was working for their social and political awareness,” the plea said, adding that he holds weekly meeting of the society ‘Bhim Army Ekta Mission’, of which he is the founder, at his local address in Delhi,” says the plea.
Judge Lau asked the Delhi Police to verify from the Election Commission of India to verify the Delhi address provided by Azad and whether it is an office of a political party.
The application further said that Azad travels throughout the country for the cause he’s working for, hence it would be difficult for him to personally appear before the SHO to report his presence.
The Court had restrained Chandrashekhar from visiting Delhi for four weeks and directed not to hold any dharna till the elections in the National capital is over. The court passed this order by taking notice of Saharanpur address which was furnished by Azad.
The court, while granting the bail, had remarked that Azad always has the liberty to seek modification of bail conditions imposed on him by furnishing a Delhi address.
He was arrested in the case relating to incitement of violence during anti-CAA protests at Jama Masjid.