Click to play videoNew Delhi: The Supreme Court on Wednesday stayed the Delhi High Court order lifting the ban on the controversial Students’ Islamic Movement of India (SIMI) and asked the organisation to explain why it shouldn't be banned.
On Tuesday, the Home Ministry's February notification banning SIMI was struck down by a Delhi high court tribunal for want of enough evidence.
“There is no evidence (of SIMI involvement) either in Malegoan or Mecca Masjid,” said SIMI lawyer Mobin Akhtar.
While it’s been a close shave for the Home Ministry with the Supreme Court coming to its rescue, the episode has exposed the manner in which investigations by police and security agencies are carried out.
But political parties were quick to seize the opportunity. In election season, having SIMI on their side would be a huge advantage. While SP supremo Mulayam Singh said his party had always backed SIMI, Railway Minister Lalu Yadav called for a ban on Shiv Sena as well.
While political sympathy for SIMI will have to wait, the BJP now says it’s an attempt to please its new found allies.
Whatever the motive, the facts are clear. Despite implicating SIMI in 53 cases, investigative agencies have little to show by way of hard evidence.
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