Supreme Court Grants Interim Bail to TPC's Zonal Commander Amid Trial

The Supreme Court granted interim bail to Dashrath Singh Bhokta, an alleged commander of the banned Tritiya Prastuti Committee (TPC), amid a trial for extortion and terror financing. The decision comes as other accused are on bail, despite opposition from the NIA. Bhokta has been in custody since May 2020.

The Supreme Court on Monday provided interim bail to Dashrath Singh Bhokta, alleged zonal commander of the banned Tritiya Prastuti Committee (TPC), who faces trial for charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and the Arms Act.

A bench, including Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi, acknowledged that other main accused were already on bail, agreeing to Bhokta's release on interim terms, all despite the National Investigation Agency's (NIA) opposition. Bhokta, accused of extorting funds for terror finance, has been in custody since May 2020.

The bench advised imposing conditions to ensure his presence as NIA's counsel urged scheduling post winter break, citing significant witness examination progress, albeit only six remain to be examined. The Court considered prolonged detention and legal parity in its decision.

(With inputs from agencies.)