The Delhi High Court on Monday sought a report on the medical status and treatment of E Abubacker, the former chairman of the Popular Front of India (PFI), who is currently imprisoned under a UAPA (Unlawful Activities Prevention Act) case.
A bench of Justice Siddharth Mridul and Justice Anish Dayal was hearing Abubacker’s plea for medical attention and requested a comprehensive record of his treatment.
The counsel representing the PFI leader informed the court that he was seeking the enforcement of a trial court’s directive for his admission to AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences).
In response, the bench issued notice to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) regarding the plea and instructed the Medical Superintendent to furnish a report detailing Abubacker’s current medical condition and the treatment being administered by AIIMS.
The NIA’s counsel assured the court that Abubacker was receiving appropriate medical care while in jail.
“We have ensured the best treatment for him,” the counsel stated.
Abubacker had previously approached the high court seeking release due to his deteriorating health. However, he subsequently withdrew the plea with the freedom to approach the trial court.
The former PFI leader had earlier informed the high court about his battle with cancer and the significant pain he was experiencing, necessitating medical supervision.
E Abubacker was apprehended by the agency as part of a major crackdown on the banned organization last year and is currently in judicial custody.
In February, the High Court had instructed the Medical Superintendent of Tihar Jail to ensure regular and effective treatment for Abubacker’s ailments. The court had also declined to grant him house arrest, stating that he would be admitted to a hospital for treatment if required.
Numerous individuals allegedly linked to the PFI were detained or arrested in various states during nationwide raids that preceded the ban on the organization on September 28, 2022. The ban, imposed under the UAPA, accused the PFI and its affiliated groups of having connections with global terrorist organizations such as ISIS.
The next hearing is scheduled for September 20, 2023.
