Delhi High Court Deliberates on MP Rashid's Custody Parole Cost Demands

The Delhi High Court reserved its verdict on Monday concerning a petition by Baramulla MP Abdul Rashid Sheikh, commonly known as Engineer Rashid, who is seeking an adjustment of the expenses he must incur while attending Parliament sessions under custody parole. Engineer Rashid has been granted custody parole, with costs like travel and security mandated for the visit. Rashid is contesting these financial conditions.

A division bench comprising Justices Vivek Chaudhary and Anup Jairam Bhambhani considered arguments from counsels representing Rashid, Delhi State, and the National Investigation Agency (NIA). Additional Public Prosecutor Ritesh Bahari noted that 15 security personnel from Delhi Armed Police were necessary for Rashid's escort between Tihar Jail and Parliament. It was estimated that Rashid should bear daily expenses approximating to 1.45 lakh INR.

The court emphasized that since Rashid is on custody parole and not interim bail, expenses should ideally be covered by jail authorities. However, Bahari argued that the Delhi Armed Police, not the jail, provides transport and security as per notification. Rashid's counsel, Senior Advocate N Hariharan, stressed that jail rules do not account for salary considerations and urged the court to adjust the condition, questioning the rationale behind holding Rashid responsible for such costs. The court's decision on the matter is awaited as it has asked state authorities to determine the basis for calculating the costs involved.

(With inputs from agencies.)