Balyan case: Delhi HC seeks virtual presence of 2 accused

In a case under the stringent Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) involving AAP MLA Naresh Balyan, the Delhi High Court on Wednesday sought the virtual presence of two accused, Rohit and Sachin Chikara, from jail through videoconferencing.

Justice Manoj Kumar Ohri instructed the jail superintendent to ensure their participation on December 19.

The Delhi Police have filed a plea to transfer the case of all accused persons from a trial court in Dwarka to the special MP/MLA court at Rouse Avenue.

The plea was filed to consolidate proceedings as co-accused Balyan’s applications, including those for remand, are being heard by the Rouse Avenue court, while related applications concerning other accused individuals are being listed before the designated MCOCA court in Dwarka.

“It is submitted that the special court dealing with MPs/MLAs should deal with all accused persons to maintain consistency in proceedings,” the Delhi police argued.

Justice Ohri noted that despite notices being served on the two accused, no one appeared on their behalf in the court. Meanwhile, the counsel for another accused, Ritik, informed the court that he had no objection if the case was transferred to the special MP/MLA court.

Balyan was arrested on December 4 by the Delhi police in connection with the MCOCA case for alleged involvement in organised crime. His arrest came on the same day he was granted bail by another court in a separate extortion case.

The special MP/MLA court earlier denied the police request for further custody of Balyan and sent the Uttam Nagar MLA to judicial custody until January 9, 2025.

The High Court will take up the transfer plea for further consideration on December 19.