Tihar Jail authorities have defended their decision to deny Aam Aadmi Party leader Sanjay Singh a visit with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, citing Rule 588 of the Delhi Prison Rules. This rule prohibits ex-prisoners and habitual offenders from meeting friends who are currently incarcerated. Singh, currently out on bail over alleged irregularities in the Delhi excise policy, sought to meet Kejriwal but was refused on two occasions. The jail superintendent explained that allowing such meetings is considered a privilege, not a right, and must adhere to established regulations. The case will continue to be heard in court, with the next session scheduled for September 24.
In a significant legal decision, the Tihar Jail Superintendent has defended the refusal to allow Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Sanjay Singh to meet Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in jail. This ruling is based on Rule 588 of the Delhi Prison Rules, which prohibits ex-prisoners and habitual offenders from visiting inmates unless there is a valid reason.
Currently out on bail due to alleged irregularities relating to the Delhi excise policy (2021-22), Singh sought to meet Kejriwal, who is also incarcerated in connection with the same case. However, the Tihar Jail authorities pointed out that Singh is classified as an “ex-prisoner,” and therefore ineligible for such visits.
During a recent hearing in the Delhi High Court, the Tihar Superintendent submitted an affidavit clarifying that Arvind Kejriwal had previously requested that his name be added to a visitor list, but the authorities denied the request. They emphasized that the ability to meet inmates is a privilege governed by strict regulations designed to maintain order in the prison system.
The court has scheduled a further hearing for September 24 to address Singh’s plea, which aims to overturn the jail superintendent’s ruling. Meanwhile, the enforcement of such regulations is intended to uphold prison discipline and ensure the effective management of correctional facilities.
This development highlights ongoing tensions surrounding the political landscape in Delhi and the complexities of the legal system involved in ruling such high-profile cases.
What is Tihar’s recent decision regarding MPs meeting the Delhi CM?
Tihar has decided to not allow MPs to meet the Delhi Chief Minister, citing specific rules.
Why is Tihar taking this action?
Tihar believes that allowing MPs to meet the CM could disrupt prison operations and security.
Are there any specific rules mentioned by Tihar?
Yes, Tihar pointed to existing rules that restrict certain meetings within the prison system to maintain order.
How are MPs reacting to this decision?
MPs are concerned and feel it limits their ability to address issues related to prisoners and the prison system.
Will there be any changes to this rule in the future?
It’s unclear if Tihar will change its decision, but they have emphasized the importance of following the rules for security reasons.
