The Supreme Court on Wednesday expressed concern over the prolonged delay in the trial of the 2016 Surjagarh iron ore mine arson case, in which human rights lawyer Surendra Gadling is an accused, and directed the Maharashtra government to explain the reasons for the pendency.
A bench of Justices J.K. Maheshwari and Vijay Bishnoi grilled the prosecuting agency over Gadling’s continued incarceration without the trial reaching conclusion. “We require some clarifications on certain issues. What is the reason for delay in trial?” the bench asked, also enquiring about the timeframe for completion.
Senior advocate Anand Grover, appearing for Gadling, told the court that his client has spent nearly 6.7 years in jail. Gadling had challenged a January 2023 order of the Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court that refused to grant him bail in the case.
At the hearing, the bench told Additional Solicitor General S.V. Raju, “At this stage, we want to see what is the material,” while underlining Gadling’s long incarceration as a separate issue of concern. The court was also informed that an application for discharge was still pending, prompting the bench to seek reasons for its non-disposal. The matter has been posted for October 29.
On December 25, 2016, Maoist rebels allegedly set ablaze 76 vehicles transporting iron ore from the Surjagarh mines in Gadchiroli district. Gadling has been accused of providing aid and information to Maoists, conspiring with co-accused and absconding persons, and instigating locals to oppose the mining operations.
He has been booked under provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The prosecution has alleged that Gadling provided secret government information and maps to Maoists and encouraged opposition to the Surjagarh mines project.
