Neha Bora Challenges Police Notice in Delhi High Court

Neha Bora, the president of the All India Students Association (AISA), has filed a petition in the Delhi High Court against a police notice mandating her to sign a personal bond of ₹10,000 to ensure peace. This legal action comes after the Special Executive Magistrate (SEM) issued the notice on October 18, instructing her to appear before the SEM the following day.

The High Court is presently closed for the Dussehra vacation, with plans to resume on October 26. Bora's legal team has indicated they may request an urgent hearing during this period. The notice from the Delhi Police requires her to execute the bond as a precautionary measure against potential disturbances during an ongoing inquiry.

According to Bora's legal representatives, the SEM's notice, dated October 17, was issued under specific sections of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023. It cites concerns regarding public peace following her detention at a gathering in Mandi House on October 16. The notice alleges that she engaged in sloganeering and organized protests in violation of prohibitory orders.

Bora contends that the notice fails to provide concrete evidence of any imminent threat to public order or specify any particular event that could lead to such a breach. She asserts that her actions were part of a peaceful assembly and that the allegations regarding the Connaught Place protest are unfounded. Her legal team argues that the notice does not substantiate claims of a potential breach of peace, which is essential for the SEM's jurisdiction under the BNSS.

Bora's petition highlights concerns that the proceedings are an infringement on her fundamental rights, including freedom of speech and assembly. Her legal representation, which includes advocates Abhik Chimni, Moksha Sharma, and others, is prepared to challenge the validity of the police notice in court.