Delhi High Court Grants Bail To Ragpicker Accused In Jahangirpuri Riots Case

In a first, the Delhi High Court has granted bail to one Jahid, a rag picker, arrested in connection with the clashes that broke out in city's Jahangirpuri area during a Hanuman Jayanti procession.

Jahid, an 18 to 19 year old man, was in custody since April 17, 2022.

Justice Yogesh Khanna was of the view that Jahid was not identified in any of the CCTV footages. The Court also observed that investigation against him was completed as chargesheet stood filed in the matter.

"Looking at his period of custody; the investigation being complete, and the petitioner being no more required for the purpose of investigation, is admitted to bail on his executing a personal bond of Rs.20,000/- with one surety of the like amount to the satisfaction of the learned Trial Court/Duty MM," the Court ordered.

The FIR was registered under sec. 147, 148, 149, 186, 353, 332, 323, 427, 436, 307 ,120B of the Indian Penal Code and sec. 27 of the Arms Act.

During investigation of the case, statement of witnesses were recorded by the police and on the basis of CCTV footages and identification by witnesses, 37 persons were arrested and 2 children in conflict with law were also apprehended. As per the prosecution, as many as nine firearms and nind swords were allegedly recovered.

"So far as the petitioner herein is concerned, he has not been identified in any of the CCTV coverage. Admittedly, he is aged about 18-19 years and is running in custody since 17.04.2022. The charge sheet has since been filed, hence the investigation against petitioner stood completed," the Court observed.

The bail plea was accordingly disposed of.

Advocates Lalit Bharadwaj and Rizwan Ahmad appeared for Jahid. 

Case Title: Jahid v. State

Citation: 2022 LiveLaw (Del) 800