Supreme Court Grants Bail a Day After His Birthday; 112 Others, Including Bhim Army State President, Also Granted Bail
Raipur – Congress MLA Devendra Yadav has been released from Raipur Central Jail after nearly seven months. He was arrested in connection with the Balodabazar violence case and granted bail by the Supreme Court on February 20, just a day after his birthday. A large number of his supporters gathered outside the jail to welcome him.
Background of the Case
On June 10, 2024, members of the Satnami community staged a protest in Balodabazar against the vandalism of a Jaitkham, a sacred religious symbol. The protest turned violent, with the Collectorate and SP office set on fire. Devendra Yadav was accused of inciting the crowd and supporting the protestors, leading to his arrest.
Devendra Yadav’s Defense in Supreme Court
Before the Supreme Court, Yadav argued that he had only attended the protest but had not stepped on stage or given a speech. His legal team contended that merely being present did not imply he incited violence.
Additionally, his lawyers highlighted that:
- The timing of his presence and the outbreak of violence did not coincide.
- He was not at the scene when the violence occurred.
- His arrest was politically motivated, as he was taken into custody from his Bhilai residence, far from the incident site.
Timeline of the Balodabazar Violence Case
- May 15, 2024 – A Jaitkham in Manakoni village (5 km from Giroudpuri Dham) was vandalized overnight, triggering protests.
- May 19, 2024 – Three individuals from Bihar were arrested, claiming they vandalized the Jaitkham under the influence of alcohol due to a financial dispute. However, the community remained dissatisfied.
- June 10, 2024 – A large-scale protest in Balodabazar turned violent. Protestors set fire to the Collectorate and SP offices, torched vehicles, and clashed with the police. Around 200 people, including public representatives, were arrested.
- August 17, 2024 – Devendra Yadav was arrested after being summoned for questioning.
Police Report on the Violence
According to the charge sheet, the violence caused ₹2.82 crore in damages. Protestors vandalized and torched government and private vehicles, including fire brigade trucks. The SP and Collectorate offices were set ablaze.
During the clashes:
- Several police officers and government employees were injured.
- Protestors arrived with petrol bombs, indicating pre-planned arson.
After 188 days in custody, Devendra Yadav and 112 other accused, including Bhim Army State President, have been granted bail.
