New Delhi, Oct 15 (UNI) The Supreme Court, on Tuesday, extended by four weeks interim protection from arrest to rights activist and journalist, Gautam Navlakha, an accused in the Koregaon Bhima case, that had sparked sectarian violence.
Led by Justice Arun Mishra, the bench observed that Navalakha will have to approach the court concerned for pre-arrest bail in the case lodged under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act after the violence last year.
On October 4, the apex court had in its last order extended the interim protection from arrest in connection with the case for Navlakha till today.
Complying with the Supreme Court's order, the Maharashtra state government today produced in sealed cover evidence and materials against Navalakha.
Appearing for Navlakha, counsel Abhishek Manu Singhvi, submitted that the petitioner was requested by the government to converse between Maoists and the government. Counsel further submitted that Navlakha has expressly supported non violence.
CPI-Maoists severely condemns the killing of people, Dr Singhvi contended. Allegations, he added, are just that the appellant is in proximity with the banned organisation, no indictment as to involvement in violence. He further submitted that the appellant has been used as channel of communication by the government.
The Maharashtra state government had submitted to the apex court that it has evidence that Navlakha is a member of the banned organisation.
UNI XC RP1833