Delhi HC Questions NIA on MP Abdul Rashid’s Bail Plea in Terror Funding Case

Fast Summary

• Delhi High Court’s Response: the Delhi High Court sought a reply from the NIA on July 25, 2025, regarding Lok Sabha MP Sheikh Abdul Rashid’s plea for interim bail to attend Parliament’s Monsoon session.
• Trial Court Decision challenged: Rashid also challenged a trial court ruling requiring him to pay Rs. 1.44 lakh per day for custody parole during the session.
• Next Scheduled Hearing: Both interim bail adn regular bail pleas will be heard on July 29, 2025.
• Current Status: Rashid has been incarcerated in Tihar jail since 2019, charged under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) in connection with terror funding allegations.
• background Allegations: Accused of funding separatist and terrorist groups in Jammu and Kashmir; charges framed against him include criminal conspiracy, waging war against the government, sedition (IPC), and also UAPA offences.
• Legal counsel Statement: Rashid’s lawyer stated he has already incurred Rs.17 lakh costs due to previous custody attendance at Parliament and highlighted financial challenges impeding his role as MP.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The ongoing legal proceedings surrounding Sheikh Abdul Rashid raise significant questions about balancing parliamentary obligations with judicial accountability amidst serious criminal allegations. While attending parliamentary sessions is integral to fulfilling democratic duties as an elected representative, facilitating such actions under custody or granting interim bail carries logistical and financial burdens that may strain public resources.

Rashid’s case highlights broader implications about managing MPs facing legal scrutiny: potential reforms might potentially be necesary for future instances where elected leaders face incarceration without undermining institutional integrity or public trust. Concurrently, ensuring rigorous submission of laws like UAPA reflects India’s security priorities while maintaining judicial independence.

This situation underscores evolving challenges in reconciling individual rights within systems bound by law enforcement requirements and democratic principles.

Read more: Lok Sabha MP seeks interim bail for Monsoon session