Fourteen Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) protesters, who were granted bail, have approached the Delhi High Court to expedite document verification and formalities for their early release from Tihar jail. The protesters, including JNUSU president Aditi Mishra, filed an application with the High Court seeking a quick hearing to secure their release before address verification. They face the prospect of remaining in Tihar custody over the weekend due to strict documentation requirements.
The students aim to be freed from judicial custody even before their permanent addresses are verified, a condition imposed by the Patiala House Court during their bail grant. The court mandated stringent verification due to concerns over the protesters’ reluctance to disclose accurate information and failure to nominate family or friends for arrest-related details. The accused, including JNU Students’ Union office-bearers, were brought before the Patiala House Court following their arrest during a clash with police.
Delhi Police argued in court that judicial custody was necessary for further investigation, citing the violent turn of the protest. Allegedly, around 300 protesters, including the accused, attempted an unauthorized “Long March,” resulting in clashes and assaults on officers when police intervened. The police highlighted injuries sustained by personnel during the confrontation and pointed out the accused’s involvement in prior protests with alleged force use.
Despite opposition from the accused’s counsel, the court granted bail to all 14 individuals upon submission of Rs 25,000 bail bonds each. The confrontation unfolded after students tried to march outside JNU campus without permission, leading to accusations of violence by the Delhi Police and condemnation of excessive force by students and the JNU Teachers Association.
