Bombay HC Rejects Bail To ‘JeM Operative’ Accused Of Conducting Recce Of Hedgewar Memorial

The Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court on Friday rejected the bail plea of Raees Ahmed Sheikh Asadulla Sheikh, a resident of Jammu and Kashmir, accused of being an operative of the banned terrorist organization Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM).

Sheikh was arrested in 2022 for allegedly conducting a reconnaissance of Dr. Hedgewar Smruti Mandir, the memorial dedicated to Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) founder Dr. K.B. Hedgewar, in Nagpur’s Reshimbag area.

Allegations & Investigation

According to investigators, Sheikh carried out a recce of the memorial on September 15, 2021, allegedly as part of a larger plan linked to terrorist activities. Security agencies believe he was acting under the instructions of handlers associated with Jaish-e-Mohammed. His movements reportedly raised suspicion, leading to his arrest the following year.

Court’s Decision

Earlier this month, Sheikh had moved the High Court, seeking bail on the grounds of insufficient evidence against him. His legal counsel argued that the prosecution had failed to present concrete proof linking him to any planned attack or terrorist activity.

However, after reviewing the case, the High Court denied bail, citing the seriousness of the allegations and the potential threat to national security. The court emphasized the need for further investigation and the possibility of Sheikh’s involvement in terror-related activities.

National Security Concerns

The case has drawn attention due to its connection with Jaish-e-Mohammed, a Pakistan-based terrorist group responsible for multiple attacks in India. Authorities have been on high alert regarding possible reconnaissance missions conducted by terror operatives targeting key locations, especially those linked to ideological and political groups.

More Into The Case

With bail denied, Sheikh will remain in custody as the investigation continues. Law enforcement agencies are expected to scrutinize his network, digital footprint, and communication records to gather further intelligence on his alleged links to Jaish-e-Mohammed. The case underscores the heightened vigilance of Indian security forces against potential terror threats.

Further court proceedings will determine the next course of action, and security agencies remain committed to ensuring that any potential threats are neutralized.