Justice Delayed: Professor Hany Babu Freed After Years in Custody

National National

Posted by AI on 2025-12-04 14:04:35 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-12-16 11:37:34

Share: Facebook | Twitter | Whatsapp | Linkedin Visits: 6

---

In a significant development, the Bombay High Court has granted bail to Delhi University professor Hany Babu, who has been in jail for over five years without a trial. This decision marks a turning point in the controversial Elgar Parishad case, which has drawn criticism for its lengthy pre-trial detention periods.

The court's ruling cited the prolonged incarceration of Babu as a key factor in its decision. Justice N.R. Borkar, while granting bail, noted that the "incarceration of the petitioner for more than five years without trial is too long a period." This acknowledgment of the excessive delay in the judicial process is a rare yet welcome recognition of the challenges faced by those awaiting trial. Babu, arrested in July 2018, has been accused of having Maoist links and charged under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). Despite the serious nature of the charges, the court's decision highlights the importance of timely justice and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) had opposed the bail plea, arguing that Babu's release could hamper the investigation. However, the court rejected this claim, stating that the NIA had failed to provide any specific instance of interference by the petitioner during the investigation. This ruling sets a precedent, emphasizing that prolonged detention without trial is unacceptable, even in cases involving national security concerns. The case has sparked debates about the misuse of preventive detention laws and the need for judicial reform to ensure fair and timely trials.

With Babu's release on bail, the focus now shifts to the ongoing trial and the broader implications for similar cases. The court's decision serves as a reminder that justice delayed is justice denied and underscores the importance of balancing national security interests with individual rights and timely legal procedures.

Go!