Delhi High Court Denies Bail to Kashmiri Separatist Shabir Ahmad Shah

High Court's Decision on Bail Plea

On Thursday, the Delhi High Court dismissed the bail application of Kashmiri separatist leader Shabir Ahmad Shah. The court expressed serious concerns, stating that there is substantial evidence against him, and the allegations seem to be credible at first glance.

Concerns Over Unlawful Activities

The court highlighted that Shah faces 24 FIRs of a similar nature, indicating that his role as chairman of the JKDPF raises suspicions of involvement in unlawful activities.

Background of the Case

Shabir Ahmad Shah has been in judicial custody since 2019, following his arrest in June of that year related to a terror funding case initiated by the NIA in 2017 against other separatists.

Judicial Remarks on Evidence

The division bench, comprising Justices Navin Chawla and Shalinder Kaur, rejected Shah's regular bail and other applications. They noted, "It is unnecessary to mention that the charges have been framed by the Trial Court, and there are reasonable grounds to believe that the accusations against the Appellant appear prima facie to be true."

Trial Court's Previous Ruling

Shah had appealed against the trial court's decision to deny him bail in July 2023. The High Court reaffirmed its stance, citing overwhelming evidence while reviewing the appeal.

Potential Witness Tampering

The High Court also expressed concerns that Shah, as the head of an unlawful organization, might influence potential witnesses.