NEW DELHI: The SC on Wednesday granted interim bail to Union Minister Ajay Mishra Teni’s son Ashish Mishra who is accused of running a vehicle on farmers protesting in Lakhimput Kheri in October 2021.
However, the court restrained, Jr Mishra from living in Uttar Pradesh and Delhi, and nearby areas. A bench headed by Justice Surya Kant directed Mishra to leave the state of UP within one week and further barred him from staying in UP or Delhi. The order further mentioned that any attempt by a family member of the accused, to influence the witness will also lead to the cancellation of his bail. Additionally, the bench has said, “If it is found that Ashish Mishra is trying to delay the trial it will be a valid ground to cancel the bail.”
The court has also directed the lower court to submit the progress of the report of the trial to the SC after every date of the hearing with details of witnesses examined on each date. The plea will be heard next on 14 March, after the trial court examines the witnesses and sends a report on their status.
Additionally…The apex court invoked its suo-motu power and granted interim bail to four persons who were accused in the counter case (against the farmers). The four are directed to furnish bail bonds to the trial courts.
Background:
- 8 people including farmers were mowed down by the convoy Ashish Mishra in Lakhimpur Kheri on October 3, 2021.
- Mishra was arrested following testimonials by eyewitnesses.
- The Allahabad court in Feb 2022, granted him bail.
- The grant was revoked by (then) Chief Justice of India NV Raman in April 2022.
- The HC dismissed the bail plea after re-hearing the matter in July 2022.