Delhi High Court Questions NIA's Ban on Virtual Meetings for Terror Funding Accused

The Delhi High Court has sought an explanation from the National Investigation Agency (NIA) on why prisoners facing terror funding charges are denied virtual meetings while being allowed physical visits. The court questioned the rationale behind the rule, deeming it irrational. The NIA argued that virtual meetings pose security risks.

The Delhi High Court has demanded an explanation from the National Investigation Agency (NIA) regarding its decision to prevent prisoners accused of terror funding from utilizing the 'e-mulakat' virtual meeting facility, despite allowing them physical visits with family members.

Justice Sanjeev Narula questioned the logic behind this rule, describing it as irrational, considering that physical visits do not require similar approval. The NIA's counsel justified their stance by expressing concerns that prisoners could influence witnesses via virtual meetings conducted in local languages, which officials might not understand.

Advocate M S Khan, representing the prisoners, suggested that authorities record virtual conversations or employ translators. The pleas by prisoners Masasasong AO and Alema Jamir aimed to overturn the circular limiting virtual communication, citing it as a violation of fundamental rights. The court granted limited virtual meeting permissions while awaiting further NIA instructions.

(With inputs from agencies.)