SC orders release of Varun Gandhi on parole

In a conditional reprieve for detained BJP leader Varun Gandhi, the Supreme Court today ordered his release on parole for two weeks after he gave an undertaking to Etah jail authorities that he will not make inflammatory speeches.

The apex court imposed a stringent condition that 29-year-old Varun, held under the National Security Act, will not make any speech against a community, religion, race and disturb public order during the period of parole.

"Having regard to the facts and circumstances, we are inclined to release him on parole for two weeks on condition that he will give an undertaking before the superintendent of Etah Jail that he will not make such speeches during the parole which is likely to cause communal disturbance and hatred among any caste and community," a Bench headed by Chief Justice K G Balakrishnan said.

The Bench also comprising Justices P Sathasivam and J M Panchal said Varun will not disturb public sentiments during the period of parole.

Varun would also have to furnish a personal bond of Rs 50,000 and two sureties of the like amount before the Pilibhit District Magistrate, it said.

The apex court directed the BJP leader to give an undertaking to Etah Jail authorities that he will not make any "inflammatory or provocative speech that causes communal disharmony".

The Bench said after his release, Varun will give an identical undertaking before the apex  court.