In a significant development, the Supreme Court has granted interim bail to Abbas Ansari, currently detained in Kasganj district jail, allowing him to participate in the 'fatiha' ritual for his deceased father, Mukhtar Ansari.
Under the leadership of Justice Surya Kant, the Bench empathized with the petitioner's inability to attend his father's funeral due to being in judicial custody.
Mukhtar Ansari, known for his transition from a gangster to a politician, passed away on March 28 due to a cardiac arrest, amidst allegations linking him to the killing of Awadhesh Rai, brother of Ajay Rai.
The Bench, including Justice KV Viswanathan, laid down several conditions, directing the Uttar Pradesh Police to ensure Abbas Ansari's secure transfer from Kasganj jail to his hometown in Ghazipur for the 'fatiha' ritual scheduled on April 10.
In emphasizing the urgency, the apex court mandated that the journey commence by 5 pm on the same day, considering the distance between the two locations.
Furthermore, after the completion of the ritual on Wednesday, Abbas Ansari may be temporarily relocated to a local jail in Ghazipur. The Ghazipur district administration is tasked with verifying any additional rituals scheduled from April 11 onwards, permitting Ansari's participation under police custody if deemed necessary.
To maintain security, police authorities are instructed to conduct thorough checks on all visitors, ensuring the prohibition of weapons or any unauthorized items.
The petitioner is expected to return to Kasganj jail by April 13, 2023, as per the Supreme Court's directive. Additionally, while on interim bail, Abbas Ansari is prohibited from engaging with the media, either print or electronic.
During the hearing, the Additional Advocate General (AAG) Garima Prashad, representing the Uttar Pradesh government, argued against Ansari's temporary release, citing his involvement in serious crimes and the potential threat he poses to witnesses and public order.
AAG Prashad noted that no ceremonies were scheduled for the immediate future, suggesting that the state government would not object if such events were planned
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