Bhima Koregaon Case: Supreme Court Rejects Varavara Rao's Plea for Relaxation of Bail Conditions

The Supreme Court on Friday dismissed a plea filed by activist and poet P. Varavara Rao, an accused in the Bhima Koregaon violence case, seeking modification of his medical bail conditions. Rao, booked under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), is currently out on bail but cannot leave the Greater Mumbai area without prior permission from the trial court.

A bench of Justices J.K. Maheshwari and Vijay Bishnoi refused to intervene after hearing submissions from senior advocate Anand Grover.

Rao’s Counsel Cites Health Issues

Grover argued that although Rao has been on bail for four years, his health has worsened. Earlier, his wife took care of him, but she has now shifted to Hyderabad, leaving him without support in Mumbai. He told the court:

• Rao recently collapsed due to dizziness.

• His monthly pension is ₹50,000, while his medical expenses cross ₹76,000.

• In Telangana, Rao can avail free healthcare, but in Mumbai he has to pay each time.

Grover also pointed out that the case is still at the Section 207 CrPC stage and the trial is unlikely to conclude anytime soon.

Court’s Response

Justice Maheshwari noted, “The government will take care of his health. Otherwise, he may approach the same court (trial court); we have no interest in that.”

When Grover requested liberty to approach the court later, the bench declined to pass such directions.

Medical Bail Since 2022

Rao was granted medical bail in August 2022 by a bench headed by then CJI U.U. Lalit, which considered his age, deteriorating health, and the fact that he had already spent 2.5 years in detention.

At that time, the court imposed strict conditions:

• Rao cannot leave the Greater Mumbai area without NIA court permission.

• He must not misuse his liberty, contact witnesses, or influence the investigation.

The trial has still not begun, despite the charge sheet being filed.