The Delhi High Court, on Monday, called for the National Investigation Agency’s (NIA) input regarding a custody parole request made by OMA Salam, a leader of the banned Popular Front of India (PFI). Justice Ravinder Dudeja has postponed the decision, asking for a detailed written response from the NIA by Friday, April 25.
OMA Salam, who is detained under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) for his alleged activities with the now-prohibited PFI, has appealed for 15 days of custody parole to participate in memorial services for his deceased daughter in Kerala. His plea contrasts with a recent trial court ruling that permitted only a day and six hours for the same.
Custody parole would allow Salam to travel under strict police escort. The need for extended time arises from Salam’s desire to observe religious ceremonies, which are scheduled between April 18 and May 2, at his daughter’s grave. His daughter, an MBBS student, tragically passed away in an accident last year.
The NIA has previously indicated that they will oppose Salam’s plea, referencing his significant influence within the PFI and potential risks. They highlighted that the organization and its members are accused of orchestrating a criminal conspiracy to fund terrorist activities and indoctrinate recruits.
The government officially banned the PFI on September 28, 2022, for five years, aligning it with global terror groups such as ISIS and citing its involvement in numerous terror acts across India. This ban came after a series of nationwide raids and the arrest of many PFI activists, underscoring the group’s extensive network within the country.
