Supreme Court Grants Interim Bail to Alleged TPC Commander

The Supreme Court has granted interim bail to Dashrath Singh Bhokta, an alleged commander of the banned Tritiya Prastuti Committee. Facing charges of extortion and terror financing, Bhokta's bail comes despite oppositions due to his prolonged custody and parity with other accused already on bail.

The Supreme Court has granted interim bail to Dashrath Singh Bhokta, an alleged zonal commander of the banned Tritiya Prastuti Committee (TPC). Bhokta, facing charges of extortion and terror financing under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and the Arms Act, received relief even as the National Investigation Agency opposed his plea.

The decision was made by a bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi. They noted that other key accused are already out on bail and directed the trial court to impose conditions to ensure Bhokta's presence for the ongoing trial.

Bhokta has been detained since May 17, 2020, accused of extortion to fund TPC's activities and illegally acquiring property. The Supreme Court considered his long custody and parity with other accused in their decision to grant bail.

(With inputs from agencies.)