The accused is over 70 years old, a cancer survivor, and is battling Parkinson’s disease, argues his counsel
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court on Tuesday denied bail to the former Popular Front of India (PFI) chairman E. Abubacker.
The ailing septuagenarian activist is facing charges under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA). The case is being investigated by the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
A division bench of Justices Suresh Kumar Kait and Manoj Jain delivered the verdict after the NIA counsel opposed the bail plea contending that the accused has several cases against him and expressed concern that no one would testify against him if he were to be released.
Abubacker was arrested during a crackdown on the banned PFI last year.
Senior advocate Nitya Ramakrishna, representing Abubacker, argued that there was insufficient evidence to support the case against her client. She said that Abubacker is over 70 years old, a cancer survivor, and is battling Parkinson’s disease.
However, the NIA’s counsel countered, stating there was substantial evidence indicating that training camps were organised to prepare PFI cadres for illegal activities.
The NIA also told the court that Abubacker was receiving treatment for his multiple ailments while in custody.
Abubacker had moved the high court against a June 9, 2023 order of the Additional Sessions Judge, Patiala House Courts, denying him bail for which he had cited the merits of the case as well as his poor medical condition.
