Contempt plea in Elgaar Parishad case: Court summons Taloja jail superintendent to explain why cot is not provided to accused Surendra Gadling

On August 14, last year, the special court, considering ‘ill health’ of Gadling had asked jail authority to ‘sympathetically check out’ feasibility of use of western commode available in other barracks and if he can be taken there whenever required. The court had noted, so far as the use of cot or bed stand is concerned, if it was available in the cells of the jail, Gadling may be accommodated there. The court had, meanwhile, permitted him to purchase a mattress from the jail canteen at his own expense and allowed him to use the same.

However, on January 20, the jail authority wrote to the court that it was not possible to provide cot or bed stand to Gadling as there was no space in the barracks in which he was lodged, but the same can be provided if he can be transferred to another cell or prison in Mumbai area.

It also said that Gadling was lodged in a barracks having western commode, therefore the said direction was complied with.

Gadling, 58, thereafter moved an application before special court to initiate contempt proceedings against the superintendent of Taloja jail for ‘wilfully disrespecting and ignoring’ special court’s August 2024 order related to providing western commode and cot/bed stand.

On January 28, the special court directed Taloja Jail superintendent Pramod Wagh to remain present on February 11 (Tuesday) to respond to the said application.

Last month, the special court had rejected Gadling’s plea seeking permission to walk for an hour within the jail premises in the morning and evening.