New Delhi, March 19, 2025 – The Delhi High Court today issued a notice to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) regarding an interim application filed by Kashmiri separatist leader Shabir Ahmad Shah. Shah, currently in judicial custody in connection with a militant case lodged by the NIA, is seeking interim relief to resume the E-Mulakat facility, which allows virtual meetings with family and legal counsel.
Justice Girish Kathpalia presided over the hearing and directed the NIA to submit its response to Shah’s plea. The matter has been scheduled for further hearing on May 1, 2025. Shah’s application stems from his ongoing detention in a high-profile case involving allegations of militancy and related activities in Jammu and Kashmir.
Advocate Prashant Prakash, representing Shah, argued before the court that the E-Mulakat facility had previously been available to the separatist leader for a limited period but was subsequently withdrawn. The counsel emphasized that Shah, who is battling various health issues, should be granted interim relief to maintain contact with his family, particularly highlighting a recent in-person meeting with his wife in jail as evidence of his need for continued communication.
Shabir Ahmad Shah has been in custody since July 26, 2017, facing multiple charges related to militancy and terror funding. While he was recently ordered to be released in a separate money laundering case after serving the maximum sentence, he continues to be detained due to ongoing NIA investigations.
The court’s decision on this interim relief could set a precedent for how communication facilities are managed for inmates in terror-related cases, balancing security protocols with humanitarian considerations. Further developments are awaited as the NIA prepares its response.
(Inputs with the Agencies)
