After nearly 60 days in jail, eight accused arrested in connection with the alleged Roza Iftar gathering on the Ganga river in Varanasi have been granted bail by the court.
During the hearing, the court delivered its order on the bail applications filed by the accused. The bail pleas of six other accused persons are scheduled to be heard on May 18.
According to sources, the matter came into focus after videos and photographs surfaced showing a Roza Iftar being held on a boat in the Ganga river. Following this, the police initiated action and arrested several individuals in connection with the case.
During the proceedings, the court examined documents related to the matter and heard submissions from both sides before granting relief to eight accused persons.
Police had earlier stated that action in the case was taken keeping in view issues related to law and order and security.
Following reports of the bail order, family members of the accused expressed relief. Relatives said they had been waiting for the court’s decision for a long time.
The case has also generated discussion on social media, with differing views being expressed regarding the court’s decision.
The matter had attracted political and social attention in Uttar Pradesh, and several organisations and political leaders had also reacted to it.
Legal experts stated that grant of bail does not amount to acquittal of the accused, but constitutes legal relief pending completion of the trial and further proceedings.
The court is expected to consider the remaining bail applications during the next hearing.
The process for the release of the accused granted bail is currently underway.
