Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Sep 11: A special NIA court has rejected the bail plea of 33-year-old Byculla accountant and terror accused Tabish Siddiqui, who claimed to be of unsound mind due to schizophrenia.

Special Judge Chakor S Baviskar observed that the alleged high-tech and extensive nature of Siddiqui’s activities demonstrated determination and firm intent, saying, “No person of sound mind would dare to call him a person of unsound mind.”

Siddiqui, arrested in July 2023, is accused of pledging allegiance to ISIS, communicating with foreign handlers, creating propaganda to recruit youth for armed jihad, and preparing kits for improvised explosive devices. The judge noted that the evidence connects Siddiqui prima facie to the alleged offences, nullifying his insanity claim.

Medical officers during NIA custody reportedly found Siddiqui “medically fit” and “behaviourally stable.” The court concluded that releasing him on bail could risk a recurrence of illegal activities.