Delhi Court Allows Yasin Bhatkal to Video Call Ailing Mother

Yasin Bhatkal, a prominent figure in the Indian Mujahideen and convicted terrorist, is currently serving a death sentence in Tihar Jail, Delhi. Recently, he sought permission from the court to meet his ailing mother, who has undergone cardiac surgery. Instead of granting custody parole, the Patiala House Court allowed a video conference as a one-time allowance, reflecting a cautious approach to balancing humanitarian needs with security concerns. The court directed the Jail Superintendent to facilitate this interaction, emphasizing that Bhatkal must communicate in Hindi. This stipulation aims to ensure clarity and compliance with the court's order. Additionally, the court granted the Jail Superintendent the authority to record the communication if deemed necessary, highlighting the security implications of allowing a convicted terrorist to interact with family members. Bhatkal's request was grounded in the provisions of the Delhi Prison Rules, which outline circumstances under which custody parole may be granted, including serious illness of a family member. His mother's critical condition served as a compelling reason for the request, underscoring the emotional and familial aspects of the situation. This decision illustrates the complexities faced by the judicial system when addressing the needs of individuals with serious criminal backgrounds while also considering their familial ties. The court's ruling reflects a careful consideration of both humanitarian and security factors in a sensitive context.