Delhi High Court Denies Parole to Convicted Terrorist Mohd. Ayoub Mir Citing Security Risks

The Delhi High Court has dismissed the parole plea of Mohd. Ayoub Mir, a convicted Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist, citing security risks as a major concern. Mir, who is serving a life sentence under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA), has been incarcerated for over two decades.

Justice Sanjeev Narula acknowledged Mir's long-term imprisonment and his battle with cancer, but emphasized the discretionary nature of parole. The court stressed that national security considerations must take precedence over humanitarian factors, given the severity of Mir's offences and potential risks of anti-national activities.

While denying parole, the court directed authorities to ensure Mir continues receiving top medical treatment at Government Medical College, Jammu. It also instructed that if specialized care unavailable in Jammu is recommended, his transfer to an appropriate facility should be expedited.

Standing Counsel Rushab Aggarwal and Additional Standing Counsel Sanjeev Bhandari opposed Mir's plea, asserting that he is receiving sufficient medical treatment and that his release could lead to a resurgence of anti-national activities. They highlighted intelligence reports of Mir's past misuse of liberty and risks associated with parole.

Mir, convicted under FIR No. 34/2002 and previously granted parole, allegedly instigated youth to join militancy and incited inmates with anti-national slogans. Despite arguments from his counsel citing medical needs and family hardships, the court found the April 2025 parole rejection valid.

(With inputs from agencies.)