Did the MCOCA Court Deny Bail to Ex-AAP MLA Naresh Balyan?

Synopsis
In a recent ruling, a Special Delhi Court has denied bail to former AAP MLA Naresh Balyan, escalating the intrigue surrounding his arrest linked to organized crime. This decision marks another chapter in a case that has raised serious questions about political accountability and law enforcement in India.
Key Takeaways
- Naresh Balyan is facing serious charges under the MCOCA.
- The court's decision reflects ongoing investigations in organized crime.
- His arrest has implications for political accountability in Delhi.
- The case raises questions about the relationship between politicians and criminal elements.
- Future developments will be crucial in understanding the legal landscape.
New Delhi, May 27 (NationPress) A significant blow for former Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) legislator Naresh Balyan, as a Special Delhi Court on Tuesday refused to grant him bail in a case concerning organized crime.
Special MCOCA Judge Dig Vijay Singh turned down Balyan's bail request – the second attempt made by the former Uttam Nagar MLA – citing a lack of sufficient grounds for approval.
Balyan participated in the court proceedings via video link from jail.
The Delhi Police opposed Balyan's bail request, arguing that the investigation is at a pivotal stage and releasing him now could impede the ongoing probe.
Balyan was detained on December 4 under the Maharashtra Control of Organized Crime Act (MCOCA), just moments after he attained bail in a separate extortion case.
He had submitted a bail application on January 15, which was subsequently denied by a Delhi court.
On January 29, the Delhi High Court also rejected a plea from Balyan seeking custody parole to assist his wife during the Assembly election campaign.
The former MLA was formally chargesheeted by the police on May 1. The supplementary chargesheet identified four individuals: Vijay alias Kalu, Sahil alias Poli, Balyan, and Jyoti Prakash alias Baba.
Balyan was apprehended on November 30, 2024, following the release of audio recordings allegedly featuring him conversing with gangster Kapil Sangwan alias Nandu. The recordings reportedly unveil schemes to intimidate and extort money from builders and other parties in Delhi.
The BJP labeled Balyan an 'extortionist' and accused AAP officials of conspiring with gangsters to extract protection fees from traders and builders.
BJP national spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia alleged that Balyan's actions were carried out with the knowledge of AAP leader and former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.
BJP leader Kailash Gahlot dismissed assertions of conspiracy regarding Balyan's arrest, claiming that senior AAP leaders have been aware of the situation for nearly a year.