CJP Activists Face SEM Court Today Amid Crime Branch Probe
CJP activists Saurav Das, Ashutosh Ranka, and Ajinkya face the SEM court and Crime Branch probe following Jantar Mantar protests.
The legal battle for CJP activists SEM court appearances continues today, as Saurav Das, Ashutosh Ranka, and Ajinkya are scheduled to present themselves before the Special Executive Magistrate (SEM) court. This comes amidst an ongoing investigation by the Delhi Police Crime Branch into their recent activities.
The Tug-of-War With the Crime Branch
While the court date is fixed for 3 pm on Friday, the activists are also under the scanner of the Crime Branch. The investigating agency had previously summoned the trio for questioning on Thursday at their Rajouri Garden office, but the activists failed to appear.
Although the Crime Branch has not issued a fresh formal notice for Friday, the three individuals have been asked to report for questioning anytime between 10 am and 4 pm. Whether they choose to visit the investigating agency before their scheduled court appearance remains a decision for the activists themselves.
Background of the Detention
The current legal turmoil stems from an event on October 13, where protests were held at Jantar Mantar. According to the police, the site had been denotified as a designated area for protests. The authorities alleged that the activists entered the area through private premises and violated laws regarding the maintenance of public peace.
Saurabh Das and Ashutosh Ranka were previously detained in connection with this incident, leading to their recent appearance before the SEM court.
Court Orders and Strict Undertakings
In a significant development, SEM Ritu Raj ordered the release of Das and Ranka from judicial custody. The court decided that further detention was unnecessary, provided the activists adhered to strict conditions. To secure their release, the court mandated the following:
- Financial Bonds: The two leaders were required to furnish personal and surety bonds of Rs 50,000 each.
- Peace Pledge: Written undertakings were submitted promising not to breach the peace or disturb public tranquility.
- Protest Restrictions: The activists explicitly undertook not to call for any protests at Jantar Mantar until the site is legally denotified.
- Legal Framework: They committed to ensuring that any future protests are conducted strictly within the constitutional framework.
The SEM court has made it clear that while the activists have been released on bond, the enquiry into the matter will continue in full accordance with the law. The activists are now required to appear at every hearing date to ensure compliance with their undertakings.