Gujarat HC allows AAP MLA Vasava three-day release without police escort

Ahmedabad: The Gujarat High Court on Thursday granted temporary relief to Aam Aadmi Party MLA from Dediapada, Chaitar Vasava, by allowing him a three-day release from jail without police escort. Vasava, who has been in prison since July on charges of attempted murder, had earlier been granted interim bail by a Rajpipla trial court from September 8 to 10 to attend the state assembly session. However, that order required him to bear the cost of a police escort.

Vasava challenged the condition in the High Court, arguing through his counsel Zubin Bharda that the escort charges were excessive and unaffordable. He assured the court that he would remain in Gandhinagar, refrain from visiting Narmada district, avoid addressing the media, and not hold gatherings. Despite opposition from the prosecution, which cited his antecedents and raised concerns of potential untoward incidents, Justice M.R. Mengdey ruled in Vasava’s favour, noting that as a sitting MLA he is duty-bound to attend the assembly session. Accordingly, the court permitted his release without police escort. DeshGujarat