Delhi court clears Derek O’Brien, TMC leaders over protest outside EC office

THE JHARKHAND STORY DESK

New Delhi, July 10: Delhi’s Rouse Avenue Court on Thursday dismissed all charges against 10 Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders, including senior MP Derek O’Brien, in connection with a protest held outside the Election Commission of India on April 8, 2024. The protest had taken place during the run-up to the General Election.

The case was based on allegations that the TMC leaders had violated Section 144 of the CrPC by assembling without permission and continuing their demonstration even after being warned to disperse.

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According to Delhi Police, the leaders—carrying placards and banners—had gathered around 4:00 p.m. near the main gate of the Election Commission’s office.

All 10 leaders—Derek O’Brien, Mohd. Nadimul Haque, Dola Sen, Saket Gokhle, Sagarika Ghosh, Vivek Gupta, Arpita Ghosh, Dr. Santanu Sen, Abir Ranjan Bishwas, and Sudip Raha—were accused of defying public order instructions issued by a public servant. The FIR was filed shortly after the incident.

However, Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate (ACJM) Neha Mittal discharged all the accused, declaring in court, “All are discharged.” A detailed judgment is awaited.

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Earlier, the court had taken cognisance of the Delhi Police charge sheet and issued summons to the leaders on April 21.

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