India, May 8 -- The Delhi High Court has rejected a plea seeking interim bail for jailed Popular Front of India (PFI) leader Anis Ahmed, who had requested temporary release to meet his family members before they departed for the Haj pilgrimage.

A bench comprising Justices Prathiba M Singh and Madhu Jain observed that while the Haj pilgrimage holds deep religious significance, it cannot by itself be considered a valid ground for granting interim bail in a case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).

The court noted that Ahmed had sought six days of interim bail, arguing that it was customary for family members to meet and seek blessings before undertaking the pilgrimage.

However, the bench rejected the plea, stating that ...