The Supreme Court of India has granted temporary relief to Ashish Mishra, an accused in the high-profile Lakhimpur Kheri violence case. Under the Court’s directive, Mishra may stay at his residence from 25 December to 31 December, after which he must leave Lakhimpur Kheri by 1 January.
A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Suryakant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi delivered the decision.
During the hearing, Mishra’s counsel informed the bench that his daughter, currently in Year 12, is preparing for crucial examinations. Mishra wished to be with her during this period. Acknowledging this request, the Court granted the limited relaxation. This follows a previous instance where Mishra was allowed to visit home during Diwali.
The Court also addressed ongoing concerns regarding alleged attempts to threaten or influence witnesses.
It directed that a senior police officer of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) rank oversee the investigation into these allegations. The Uttar Pradesh government reported that it had already registered an FIR following a preliminary inquiry into a complaint of witness pressure. This action signals the seriousness of the accusations.
Reminder of Strict Bail Conditions
During earlier proceedings, the bench reminded Mishra’s legal team of the previously set bail conditions. They must adhere to these conditions with utmost strictness.
Advocate Prashant Bhushan, representing the victims, highlighted that the Court had granted Mishra bail on 22 July with clear conditions, restricting his movements and instructing him to visit the trial location only a day before the scheduled hearings.
Bhushan told the Court that Mishra travelled to Lakhimpur Kheri on 1 October. He suggested that the Court would hold proceedings on 2 October—a national holiday when the courts were closed. Despite no hearing being scheduled, reports say that Mishra addressed a large public rally on the same day, raising concerns about the breach of bail stipulations.
The Court’s latest decision reflects a balancing act between humanitarian considerations and legal requirements. It also addresses the need to protect the integrity of the judicial process.
While allowing Mishra temporary respite, the Court has also strengthened oversight on potential interference in the ongoing case. These developments are expected to influence both public perception and the legal trajectory of the matter as investigations continue.
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