Chandigarh/Shimla, June 7
The Special CBI Court in Chandigarh has rejected a plea from Zahur Haider Zaidi, the former Inspector General (IG) of Himachal Pradesh, who sought permission to travel to Madrid, Spain. Zaidi, who is currently embroiled in a legal battle over the custodial death of Suraj Singh at Kotkhai police station on July 18, 2017, had requested to travel from August 20 to September 15, 2024, to facilitate his son’s admission to IE University in Madrid.
Zaidi’s application included a request for the renewal of his passport, which expired on September 21, 2017. He emphasized his regular attendance at court hearings and his current responsible position within the Himachal Pradesh Police as assurances of his compliance with legal proceedings. He also highlighted the necessity of his travel to complete his son’s admission formalities and arrange for his lodging in Madrid.
However, the CBI opposed Zaidi’s application, arguing that a similar request had already been denied on December 9, 2019. They contended that granting the request could lead to a delay in the trial, as the case is currently at a crucial stage with the examination of investigating officers. The CBI also expressed concerns that Zaidi might abscond to evade the trial’s conclusion, given the strong evidence against him.
Further complicating matters, the CBI pointed out that Zaidi’s bail was previously cancelled and only reinstated by the High Court after he pledged to stay in Lucknow and avoid entering Himachal Pradesh until the trial’s conclusion. Granting the current request, according to the CBI, would violate this undertaking.
Special Judge Alka Malik, presiding over the CBI Court, agreed with the prosecution’s arguments. Emphasizing the critical stage of the trial and the need for Zaidi’s presence, Judge Malik noted that the trial’s conclusion was imminent and required the accused’s attendance. The judge declared that the application was not maintainable as it violated Zaidi’s prior undertaking to the Punjab and Haryana High Court.
“The trial of this case needs to be expedited given its serious nature and the fact that it is an old case. The presence of the accused is essential during this period,” stated Judge Malik in her ruling.
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