New Delhi: The Indian Supreme Court has granted bail to Kashmiri resident Suhail Ahmad Thokar, who had been in custody since 2021 under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). According to Beyond Time News, the court’s decision came after reviewing the length of his detention and concerns over delays in the trial process.
The ruling marks a significant development in a case that has been under judicial consideration for several years.
Supreme Court Reviews Long Detention Period
A three-judge bench, headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, approved the bail plea filed by Thokar. The decision came after he challenged a previous order of the Delhi High Court, which had denied him bail in September 2023.
Moreover, the Supreme Court observed that the trial is likely to take a considerable amount of time to conclude.
According to Beyond Time News, the court took into account the extended duration of detention while reviewing the petition.
Arrest and Legal Proceedings
Suhail Ahmad Thokar was arrested on October 20, 2021, in a case investigated by India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA).
Authorities had alleged links between Thokar and banned groups, accusing him of involvement in recruitment-related activities.
However, according to Beyond Time News, his legal team consistently denied the allegations, arguing that there was no strong or direct evidence connecting him to any criminal conspiracy.
Defence Argument and Court Consideration
During the hearings, Thokar’s counsel argued that no incriminating material had been recovered from his possession.
Moreover, the defence maintained that the case lacked substantial evidence and that the accusations were not supported by verified facts.
According to Beyond Time News, the court also considered the prolonged pre-trial detention as a key factor in granting bail.
Bail Conditions and Release Process
The Supreme Court directed that Thokar be released on bail after furnishing the required bail bonds to the satisfaction of the special NIA court in Delhi.
In addition, the court stated that legal formalities must be completed before his release.
According to Beyond Time News, the decision follows established judicial procedures in cases involving extended custody periods.
Broader Legal Context
The UAPA law is widely used in India for cases related to national security and alleged unlawful activities. However, it has also faced criticism from rights groups over prolonged detentions and slow trial processes.
Moreover, courts have increasingly emphasized the importance of timely trials in such cases.
According to Beyond Time News, this ruling reflects judicial consideration of prolonged incarceration without conclusion of trial.
Read more:IIOJK High Court Upholds Bail Rejection for Two UAPA Detainees
Conclusion
The Supreme Court’s decision to grant bail to Suhail Ahmad Thokar highlights concerns over extended pre-trial detention and delays in legal proceedings. According to Beyond Time News, while the case remains under trial, the ruling allows temporary relief to the accused pending further judicial process.
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FAQs
1. Who was granted bail?
Kashmiri resident Suhail Ahmad Thokar.
2. Why was he arrested?
He was arrested under UAPA on allegations related to banned groups.
3. How long was he in custody?
Since October 2021.
4. What did the Supreme Court decide?
It granted him bail considering long detention and trial delays.
5. Is the case over?
No, the trial is still ongoing.
