Court Reserves Decision on Neelam Azad’s Bail in Parliament Security Breach Case
The Patiala House Court in New Delhi has reserved its decision on the bail plea of Neelam Azad, who is accused in the Parliament security breach case from last year. The decision will be announced on September 11, 2024, by Additional Sessions Judge Hardeep Kaur.
Arguments Against Bail
Special Public Prosecutor (SPP) Akhand Pratap Singh argued against granting bail to Neelam Azad. He stated that there is strong and credible evidence against her, which makes her ineligible for bail. Singh also mentioned that the accused could be a flight risk, might threaten or influence witnesses, and could tamper with evidence. He emphasized the severity of the offense and the potential punishment.
Defense’s Stand
On the other hand, defense lawyer Balraj Malik argued that the prosecution’s claims do not show a threat to economic security or sovereignty. He criticized the use of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) to silence dissent and pointed out that the accused were reportedly beaten up in Parliament.
Background of the Case
On June 7, 2024, Delhi Police filed a 1000-page chargesheet against six accused, including Neelam Azad. The other accused are Manoranjan D, Lalit Jha, Amol Shinde, Mahesh Kumawat, and Sagar Sharma. They are accused of illegally entering Parliament and throwing smoke canisters during a live session on December 13, 2023. The Delhi LG, VK Saxena, granted prosecution sanction under UAPA against the accused.
The case was initially registered at the Parliament Street Police Station and later transferred to the Counter Intelligence Unit of the PS Special Cell, New Delhi. All six accused are currently in judicial custody.
Doubts Revealed
Court Reserves Decision -: This means the court has not yet decided and will announce its decision later.
Neelam Azad -: Neelam Azad is a person involved in a legal case about breaking security rules at the Parliament.
Bail -: Bail is when someone who is in jail can pay money to be free until their trial.
Parliament Security Breach -: This means someone broke the rules and entered the Parliament without permission.
Patiala House Court -: This is a court in Delhi where legal cases are heard.
Special Public Prosecutor -: A lawyer who represents the government in serious cases.
Akhand Pratap Singh -: He is the Special Public Prosecutor in this case.
Defense lawyer -: A lawyer who helps the person accused of a crime.
Balraj Malik -: He is the defense lawyer for Neelam Azad.
Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act -: A law in India to prevent illegal activities that can harm the country.
Accused -: People who are said to have done something wrong or illegal.
December 13, 2023 -: The date when the Parliament security breach happened.