Uttarakhand HC Directs Alleged Mastermind in Banbhoolpura Violence to Approach Division Bench

The Uttarakhand High Court has directed Abdul Malik, accused of orchestrating the Banbhoolpura violence, to approach a division bench for his bail petition. The violence in Banbhoolpura, following a demolition, led to six deaths and over a hundred injuries. The case is under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.

The Uttarakhand High Court on Monday disposed of the bail petition of Abdul Malik, the alleged mastermind behind the Banbhoolpura violence, advising him to approach the division bench. The violence erupted over a madrasa demolition, leading to six deaths and numerous injuries, including among police and journalists.

The single-judge bench of Justice Ravindra Maithani, after hearing Malik's bail plea, declared that the decision on bench jurisdiction would not influence bail approval. This paves the way for Malik to file an appeal before a division bench regarding his bail petition.

During proceedings, the prosecution argued that the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) mandated a division bench hearing. The defense countered, claiming that regular police investigations allowed for a single bench hearing. The court ultimately directed Malik to take the matter to the division bench.

(With inputs from agencies.)