Jagtar Singh Johal: Scot detained in India freed on bail after nine years in prison

Jagtar Singh Johal: Scot detained in India freed on bail after nine years in prison

Last year, Johal was found not guilty in a trial where he faced accusations of financially backing the KLF terror organization. Despite this acquittal, he continued to be held in custody due to federal charges pending against him in eight different cases, charges that carry the possibility of the death penalty.

Johal’s defense team contends that these charges are largely repetitive in nature and insists that the remaining cases should be dropped. The legal process has been lengthy and complex, with numerous hearings conducted over the past nine years. The latest bail order emphasizes that the trial is “certainly not likely to conclude anytime soon.”

At the family residence in Dumbarton, celebrations broke out after family members received confirmation of Johal’s release. His brother, Gurpreet Singh Johal, who has actively campaigned to secure his release over the years, shared that emotions were mixed with tears of relief and joy.

Gurpreet called this development a “first step,” adding that it represents a “step in the right direction.” Reflecting on the long struggle, he admitted, “There have been so many setbacks and disappointments in the last nine years that I didn’t dare to believe it until I saw Jagtar walking out of the prison gates with my own eyes.” He further expressed hope for the future, saying, “I’ll sleep well tonight, knowing that he’s not behind bars. Tomorrow morning, the fight continues. We’ll keep on fighting until he’s home with us.

Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More