Delhi HC extends period of release of 1984 riots convict, Captain Bhagmal on parole by three months

The Delhi High Court has extended the period of release of 1984 riots convict, Captain Bhagmal on parole by a further period of three months, keeping in mind his old age. (Capt. Bhagmal vs State).The order was passed by a Single Judge Bench of justice Suresh Kumar Kait. .In December 2018, the High Court had convicted Congress leader and former Member of Parliament (MP) Sajjan Kumar for his role in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots..The Court had also affirmed the conviction of Captain Bhagmal in the case for commission of offences punishable under section 302 and 149 IPC..Bhagmal was sentenced to life imprisonment. .On September 19, 2019, Bhagmal was released on parole and the period of release was further extended for two months in March, 2020..His parole was set to expire on May 21..Seeking the further extension of parole, the counsel for Bhagmal submitted that Bhagmal was 91 years old and his medical condition was very poor, which made him vulnerable to COVID-19 infection..It was said that the Petitioner was suffering from renal complications and blood presuure, making it not advisable for him to go back to Tihar Jail..Contending that his condition would further deteriorate if he surrendered before the Jail authorities, the counsel informed the Court that Bhagmal was law-abiding citizen who never misused the liberty granted to him. .Although the extension of parole was opposed by State, the Court decided to grant relief to Bhagmal..It ordered, .Therefore, keeping in view the fact that age of petitioner is more than 90 years, I hereby extend the parole of the petitioner for a further period of three months on the same terms and conditions as imposed vide order dated 20.03.2020.. after the expiry of three months, the applicant shall surrender before the Jail Superintendent concerned.Delhi High Court.Capt Bhagmal was represented by Advocate Alok Tripathi..Standing Counsel Rahul Mehra represented State..Read the Order: