New Delhi: The Delhi High Court on Thursday heard the bail application of Abdul Rehman alias Dr. Brave, an ophthalmologist arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for alleged links with the terrorist organization ISIS. While acknowledging his medical qualifications, the Court expressed serious reservations over materials recovered during a search of his residence.
A Division Bench comprising Justice Subramonium Prasad and Justice Harish Vaidyanathan Shankar took note of submissions by Rehman’s counsel, Advocate Tamanna Pankaj, who emphasized that the accused is a qualified MD from MS Ramaiah Medical College, Bangalore. However, the bench remarked, “He has done all his studies… but this does not give him a clean chit,” referring specifically to a suspicious laser guide and other items allegedly found in his possession.
The NIA claims that extremist videos and content related to ISIS and Osama bin Laden were found on the accused’s phone. Advocate Pankaj, however, argued that many of the seized items—such as an oscilloscope—were consistent with his medical profession and dismissed NIA’s claim about the materials being capable of building a rocket launcher as “speculative.”
She also denied allegations of Rehman’s involvement in any militant activity in Syria, stating that his sole visit in 2013 was as part of a humanitarian mission with Doctors Without Borders. She contested claims that he suffered a bullet wound there, as alleged by the agency.
Referring to the Supreme Court’s ruling in Vernon v. State of Maharashtra, Pankaj contended that the charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 were not applicable. She also pointed out inconsistencies in the investigation, including a three-month delay in producing seized materials, which could allow for tampering.
The Court took cognizance of the accused’s prolonged incarceration—over four years and eight months—but maintained that holding a medical degree does not absolve one of serious charges. “Other arguments are not acceptable to the Bench,” Justice Prasad noted.
The Court granted liberty to the accused to either withdraw the current appeal or await an order. Advocate Pankaj requested examination of a key DRDO witness before proceeding. The matter has been listed for further hearing on September 25, 2025.
