Elgar Parishad Case: Surendra Gadling Seeks Action Against Police Commissionerate for Alleged Negligence

Lawyer Surendra Gadling, currently facing charges in the Elgaar Parishad case, recently appealed to a special court, alleging that the Navi Mumbai police commissionerate was ignoring a government mandate that designates police personnel specifically for escorting undertrials to court. Gadling claims this disregard for the resolution has impacted regular court appearances for undertrials, including himself, lodged at Taloja jail.

Hunger Strike Over Missed Court Hearings

Last week, Gadling and six other undertrials reportedly went on a hunger strike in protest, as they were not transported to court from Taloja jail for three consecutive hearings. On Thursday, they were finally presented in court, where Gadling voiced his frustration, explaining that jail authorities often cited a shortage of police escorts as the reason for missed court dates. He requested that the court hold the police accountable, arguing that designated personnel should not be redirected from their roles as escort officers. In response, the court has asked the prosecution to present its position on the issue.

Contempt Notice Request for Jail Authorities

In addition to his petition against the police commissionerate, Gadling urged the court to issue a contempt notice against Taloja jail authorities, accusing them of ignoring a prior court order from August 14 that granted him the use of a cot due to his health conditions. According to Gadling, the jail superintendent’s refusal to provide the cot, despite the court order, amounted to “defiance” of the court’s authority.

Petition to Allow Walking Space Due to Overcrowding

Gadling also filed a separate plea seeking permission to take walks within the jail premises in the mornings and evenings, explaining that the overcrowded barracks limited his movement space. Citing a previous court decision allowing his co-accused, Gautam Navlakha, regular walks, Gadling noted his own health concerns, including deficiencies such as low Vitamin D, and requested similar access for exercise and fresh air. The court has yet to make a decision on these appeals.