Founder of Jan Suraj Movement Declines Bail Bond
Prashant Kishor, the founder of the Jan Suraj movement, has added a fresh twist to his legal battle. Despite being granted bail by the court on a bond of ₹25,000, Kishor refused to comply. He stated emphatically, “If raising students’ voices is a crime, I am ready to go to jail.” Along with rejecting the bail bond, Kishor also declined to accept the conditions imposed by the court.
Court’s Conditional Bail Rejected
While granting bail, the court had instructed Kishor to abstain from any actions that might cause inconvenience to the public in the future. However, Kishor firmly rejected the conditional bail, declaring, “I don’t want conditional bail.” Consequently, the authorities transported him to Beur Jail in Patna.
The Gandhi Maidan Protest and Arrest
Hunger Strike at Gandhi Maidan
On January 2, Prashant Kishor began an indefinite hunger strike at Gandhi Maidan, Patna, to highlight student-related issues. The protest site, being a restricted area, attracted the district administration’s attention. Repeated requests from officials to relocate the protest to Gardanibagh, a designated area for demonstrations, were ignored.
Arrested on January 6
Early on January 6, police arrested Kishor after he refused to vacate Gandhi Maidan despite multiple warnings. His detention has drawn widespread attention, with many questioning the administration’s handling of the situation.
Prashant Kishor’s Determined Stand
“My Hunger Strike Will Continue”
Even in jail, Kishor has vowed to persist with his hunger strike. “I will not step back from my commitments. The fight for justice will continue,” he said in a statement after his arrest.
Kishor’s Lawyer Awaits Further Orders
Advocate Y.V. Giri, representing Kishor, clarified that while the procedures for judicial custody are underway, the court has yet to specify the duration of Kishor’s detention. “We are waiting for the court’s final orders to understand how long he will remain in judicial custody,” Giri explained.
Public and Legal Reactions
Mixed Public Sentiments
Kishor’s bold stance has sparked a mix of admiration and criticism. Supporters view his actions as a principled stand for students’ rights, while detractors argue that his defiance undermines the rule of law.
Legal Experts Weigh In
Legal professionals have highlighted the complexities of conditional bail and the rights of individuals to protest. Some argue that Kishor’s refusal sets a challenging precedent for law enforcement and judicial processes.
What Lies Ahead?
As the case unfolds, all eyes remain on the court’s next move. Prashant Kishor’s decision to prioritize his principles over conditional freedom has undoubtedly added a new dimension to the discourse surrounding protests and public demonstrations in India.
