NIA fails to charge-sheet JeM conspiracy case accused; bail granted
What's the story
An accused in the Jaish-e-Mohammad conspiracy case has been granted bail as the National Investigation Agency (NIA) failed to produce a charge-sheet within the stipulated time. The accused, Yusuf Chopan, was granted bail by a special NIA court in Delhi's Patiala House in an order dated February 18, after the extended 180-day period to do so elapsed earlier this month.
Details
Lawyer argued accused was entitled to statutory bail
Appearing for Chopan, lawyer Ankit Karna told the court that his client is entitled to statutory bail since he completed 180 days in custody on February 11, Live Law reported. Under Section 43(D)(2) in The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, the probing agency is allowed to detain the accused up to 180 days. Special NIA judge Parveen Singh hence granted statutory bail to Chopan.
Conditions
Probe to continue; accused directed to co-operate
Chopan was granted bail against a personal bond of Rs. 50,000 and one surety of the same amount. The investigation in the case will, however, continue and Chopan has been directed to co-operate with the same "as and when required." He is also restricted from committing similar offenses, influencing/threatening person(s) familiar with the facts of the case, or tampering with evidence.