New Delhi’s Patiala House Court delivered a midnight verdict on February 28, freeing Youth Congress President Uday Bhanu Chib on bail in the AI Summit demonstration case. Presented by Delhi Police Crime Branch before the duty magistrate, Chib avoided further custody as the court dismissed pleas for extended police remand.
Authorities had requested seven more days to interrogate Chib and two co-accused, filing separate applications. However, the magistrate ruled that the Crime Branch failed to justify the need, clearing the path for Chib’s bail on a Rs 50,000 personal surety. Strict conditions followed: deposit passport with the court and surrender all electronic devices.
This turn of events follows Chib’s overnight court appearance, amid Youth Congress claims of a targeted crackdown. The party’s X post erupted in jubilation, declaring ‘Truth prevails’ and crediting the judiciary for foiling ‘conspiracies’ by Delhi Police at the witching hour.
‘When the nation slept, the judiciary lit the lamp of justice,’ the statement read, linking the protests to resistance against an ‘anti-India trade deal.’ Supporters view the bail as validation of their leader’s stance on national interests.
As Chib steps out, questions linger over the protest’s orchestration and police handling. The case spotlights ongoing friction between youth activists and authorities, with implications for future demonstrations in Delhi. Youth Congress gears up to leverage this win, framing it as a stand against oppression.