New Delhi, August 8, 2025 

In a significant development in the 2018 Bhima Koregaon violence case, the Supreme Court of India has agreed to take up the long-pending bail petition of Dalit rights lawyer and activist Surendra Gadling for an early hearing.

 

The matter was raised before a three-judge bench led by Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai, alongside Justice K. Vinod Chandran and Justice N.V. Anjaria.

 

Appearing on behalf of Gadling, Senior Advocate Anand Grover informed the bench that the Special Leave Petition (SLP) challenging the denial of bail had been pending before the Court since October 2023, despite repeated efforts to expedite the matter.

 

“My Lords, the petition has been adjourned 11 times. I’ve mentioned it six times already. The last time I did, I was advised to file an interim application seeking early hearing. Even then, the matter hasn’t been listed,” Grover stated emphatically.

 

When the CJI asked whether the issue had arisen in the Bombay High Court, Grover clarified, “No, My Lords. Here, in this Court. It was expected to be listed today. But the Registry hasn’t responded. This is a very serious matter.”

 

Grover also informed the Court that a previous bench led by Justice Aniruddha Bose had already granted leave in the case.

 

Upon hearing this, the CJI sought clarity—“In bail?”—to which Grover affirmed. Acknowledging the concern, the bench assured that the matter will be listed shortly for hearing.

 

Surendra Gadling was arrested in July 2018 for his alleged involvement in the Elgar Parishad–Maoist conspiracy, linked to the caste-based violence that erupted at Bhima Koregaon. He has been in custody for over six years under charges framed by the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), a law known for its stringent bail provisions.

 

Despite the gravity of the charges, the trial has seen minimal progress, and the extended delay in hearing his bail plea has sparked criticism from civil liberties groups and legal observers.

 

Why This Matters

• 6.5 Years in Custody: Gadling has remained behind bars since 2018 without a concluded trial.

• 11 Adjournments: His petition has faced repeated procedural delays, despite previous judicial orders.

• SC Registry Issues: Advocate Grover raised concerns about the Registry’s inaction even after filing an interim application.

• Bench Assurance: The current CJI-led bench has now agreed to list the bail plea soon.