Delhi Court Grants Bail To Derek O’Brien, Others In Protest Case Outside Election Commission

Court

A Delhi court has granted bail to Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Derek O’Brien and several other party leaders in connection with a case linked to their protest outside the Election Commission of India (ECI) earlier in 2024.

The leaders were charged for allegedly violating prohibitory orders and engaging in unlawful assembly during a demonstration that was held outside the ECI office. The protest was organized to raise concerns over alleged irregularities and bias in the electoral process.

During the hearing, the court noted that the accused were prominent public figures with no prior criminal records and posed no flight risk. It granted regular bail on the condition that they cooperate with the investigation and refrain from attempting to influence witnesses or tamper with evidence.

The police had filed the case under provisions of the Indian Penal Code and the Delhi Police Act, citing disruption of public order and violation of Section 144 CrPC, which was in effect during the protest.

The case highlights the ongoing political tensions surrounding electoral conduct and the increasing legal scrutiny of protest activities by opposition parties.