In a significant legal development, the Supreme Court on Friday granted interim bail to Uttar Pradesh MLA Abbas Ansari, who is embroiled in a case under the state’s stringent Gangsters Act. The decision was rendered by a bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh, marking a pivotal moment in Ansari’s ongoing legal battles.
Abbas Ansari, the son of the late gangster Mukhtar Ansari and a representative of the Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party from Mau constituency, has faced multiple legal challenges. His arrest on September 6, 2024, under the UP Gangsters and Anti-Social Activities (Prevention) Act, 1986, followed allegations of extortion and assault lodged at Kotwali Karvi Police Station in Chitrakoot district.
The Supreme Court’s order stipulates several conditions for Ansari’s interim release. He is required to reside in his official accommodation in Lucknow and must obtain prior authorization from the authorities before visiting his constituency or leaving Uttar Pradesh. Additionally, he is obliged to notify the police a day before making any court appearances.
This interim bail comes despite the Allahabad High Court’s decision on December 18 of the previous year, where Ansari’s bail plea was rejected. The Supreme Court has now called for a status report from the police on Ansari’s compliance with the bail conditions within the next six weeks.
Justice Surya Kant, in delivering the judgment, highlighted that Ansari had been granted bail in all other criminal cases except the one pertaining to the Gangsters Act. The court’s decision underscores the ongoing judicial scrutiny over Ansari’s alleged involvement in criminal activities tied to his father’s legacy.
