NIA Court in Jammu Rejects Bail Plea of Former J&K Police DSP in Alleged Terror Conspiracy Case
In a significant development in a high-profile alleged terror conspiracy case, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) court in Jammu has declined to grant bail to former Jammu and Kashmir Police deputy superintendent Devinder Singh. Singh was apprehended in January 2020 along with three other individuals, including alleged operatives of the banned militant group Hizbul Mujahideen (HM).
Details of the 2020 Arrest and Allegations
According to the prosecution's account, Singh was arrested on January 11, 2020, during a joint operation on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway. The authorities intercepted a Hyundai i20 vehicle in which Singh and the three others were traveling. During the operation, a substantial cache of arms and ammunition was allegedly recovered from the vehicle, leading to their detention under serious charges.
Defense Arguments and Claims of Being Framed
In his bail plea, Devinder Singh vehemently asserted that he has been falsely implicated in the case. He highlighted his extensive service record, stating that he participated in approximately 200 anti-militancy operations over the years. Singh further emphasized a critical incident from 1998, where he sustained severe bullet injuries during an operation in Budgam, which resulted in permanent disability. He argued that this history undermines the allegations against him.
Singh also pointed to procedural delays in the trial, noting that despite his prolonged incarceration since January 2020, only a limited number of witnesses have been examined so far. He stressed that no direct recovery of incriminating materials has been made from his personal possession, questioning the basis of the charges.
NIA's Opposition and Legal Proceedings
The NIA strongly opposed the bail application, contending that Singh's regular and interim bail pleas had previously been rejected by both the trial court and the high court. The agency argued that there has been no material change in circumstances to warrant a reconsideration of bail at this stage. Singh faces charges under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), which carries severe penalties.
Dismissal from Service and Ongoing Case
In a related administrative action, the Jammu and Kashmir government dismissed Devinder Singh from police service with immediate effect on May 20, 2021, just a few months after his arrest. This dismissal underscores the gravity with which the authorities view the allegations. The case continues to unfold in the NIA court, with further legal proceedings expected as the trial progresses.
