On Wednesday, the Supreme Court overturned a Madras High Court order granting bail to 8 individuals purportedly associated with the banned organization Popular Front of India (PFI).
The individuals were facing charges under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), with allegations of collecting funds to support terrorist activities against them.
A bench comprising Justices Bela Trivedi and Pankaj Mithal presided over the decision.
The bench responded to a challenge by the National Investigating Agency (NIA) against the High Court’s previous ruling dated 19 October 2023.
The Supreme Court, while acknowledging the seriousness of the alleged offences and the nature of evidence presented by the NIA, deemed the accusations against the respondents to be prima facie true.
The court revoked bail due to the serious charges, the accused’s criminal history, and their 1.5-year incarceration.
The bench stressed the need to adhere strictly to UAPA provisions and expedite the trial accordingly.
In its ruling, the Supreme Court underscored the paramount importance of national security.
The court stated that the UAPA reflects the nation’s commitment to combat terrorist activities and uphold sovereignty and integrity.
The court emphasized that measures taken under the UAPA to restrict the civil liberties of individuals or associations accused of such activities are justified in the larger interest of national security.
Furthermore, the Supreme Court set aside the High Court’s order and instructed the respondents to surrender immediately to the NIA.
It also directed the Special Court to proceed with the trial expeditiously, independent of any observations made in the judgment.
The Supreme Court’s ruling underscores the judiciary’s commitment to upholding national security while ensuring fair and expedient legal proceedings.
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