2 jailed MPs move High Courts for nod to attend Budget Session

Rashid, an Independent MP from J&K’s Baramulla, sought urgent relief in light of the Budget session set to begin on January 31. He is lodged in Delhi’s Tihar Jail.

Amritpal, another Independent MP from Khadoor Sahib in Punjab, is currently lodged in Assam’s Dibrugarh jail under the National Security Act (NSA). In his petition, Amritpal has argued that he is an elected member representing over 19 lakh people and his prolonged absence is preventing their voice from being heard in Parliament.

Amritpal has also sought that directions be issued to authorities to let him meet Union ministers for discussions on issues related to his constituency and its development. The matter is yet to come up for hearing.

Rashid’s bail plea has been pending as the trial court is awaiting instructions on whether an NIA court has jurisdiction to decide his plea or a designated MP/MLA court should take up the matter. Additional Sessions Judge Chander Jit Singh had reserved the order on his bail plea in August 2024 and the court had requested the district judge to transfer the case to a court designated to try lawmakers.

Justice Vikas Mahajan, while issuing notice to NIA seeking a status report before the next hearing on January 30, added that he shall “see what can be done”.

Rashid has also sought that the Delhi HC, alternatively, treat his petition as a bail application.