'Same Justice System, Very Different Approach': CJP's Abhijeet Dipke Questions Swatantra Bhardwaj's Interim Bail

Abhijeet Dipke, the Chief Justice of India, expressed concern on Tuesday over the Patiala House Court granting three weeks of interim bail to Swatantra Bhardwaj. Dipke took to his X account to point out the disparity in the justice system, noting that while one individual secured bail within days even with CCTV footage, another had spent six years in prison without a trial or hearing.

He highlighted the stark contrast, stating, “Same justice system. Very different approach.” Dipke questioned how one could be released on bail so quickly despite being captured on camera, while another languishes in jail without even a trial or hearing. The Patiala House Court, on the same day, granted Bhardwaj three weeks of interim bail under strict conditions.

The court stated that his behavior during this period would be considered when granting his regular bail or extending interim bail. Bhardwaj, arrested in connection with an alleged assault on Sanjay Azad during a CJP protest at Jantar Mantar on June 23, 2026, has had his regular bail hearing set for October 6. The court has also postponed any decision on his extension of interim bail.

Special Judge (SC/ST Act) SPS Laler granted bail to Bhardwaj on a bond of Rs 50,000 with a matching surety bond. The court ordered Bhardwaj to refrain from making social media posts, interviews, or public statements related to the case or the complainant and his family. He was also prohibited from contacting the complainant, his daughter, family members, or prosecution witnesses, as well as from threatening, inducing, or influencing them.