Bail Cancelled in ISIS-Linked Radicalisation Case; Karnataka HC Flags Procedural Lapses
Ballari/Bengaluru: In a significant development in an alleged ISIS-linked radicalisation case, the Karnataka High Court has cancelled the bail granted to seven accused persons linked to an ISIS module reportedly operating in Ballari district.
The High Court observed that there were serious procedural concerns in the manner in which bail had been granted earlier. While setting aside the previous orders, the court noted that due process and statutory requirements appeared not to have been adequately considered at the time of granting relief to the accused.
The seven individuals are accused of being involved in efforts to radicalise vulnerable youth and recruit them into extremist activities linked to the Islamic State (ISIS). Investigating agencies have alleged that the group was part of a larger module aimed at spreading extremist ideology and facilitating unlawful activities.
According to officials, the case involves charges under relevant provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The prosecution had challenged the bail orders, arguing that the gravity of the allegations and the nature of the evidence required a stricter judicial scrutiny before granting bail.
The High Court, while hearing the plea, emphasized the seriousness of terror-related offences and underlined the need for courts to exercise caution, particularly in cases involving national security. The bench stated that procedural safeguards under special laws like the UAPA must be strictly adhered to.
Following the High Court’s order, the accused are likely to be taken back into custody as the trial proceedings continue.
Security agencies have reiterated their commitment to closely monitoring extremist activities and ensuring that radicalisation networks are dismantled in accordance with the law.
