Delhi’s Tis Hazari court will hear Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad’s plea for modification in his bail conditions today. He was arrested in the case relating to incitement of violence during anti-CAA protests at Jama Masjid.
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.
The Additional Sessions judge Kamini 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 and submit a report by January 21.
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.
Azad was granted by judge Kamini Lau on January 15, after 25 days remaining in custody after noting that the prosecution has failed to make a prima facie case against Azad and has not produced any material to show his involvement in the violence.