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New Delhi, May 19, 2025:
The Delhi High Court has refused to grant bail to Dr. Abdul Rehman, an ophthalmologist and MS Ramaiah Medical College alumnus, who is facing serious allegations of links with the terrorist organization ISIS. The court, comprising Justice Subramonium and Justice Harish Vaidyanathan Shankar, emphasized that holding a medical degree does not automatically exonerate an individual from criminal charges.
Background of the Case
Dr. Rehman, also known as Dr. Brave, was arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) following an investigation that reportedly uncovered videos related to ISIS, Osama Bin Laden, and other materials deemed to contain pro-hate content on his mobile phone. During a search of his residence, authorities also found a laser guide and other materials, which the NIA claimed could potentially be used to construct a model rocket launcher.
Defense Arguments
Dr. Rehman’s counsel, Advocate Pankaj, argued that the presence of certain items-such as an oscilloscope-was consistent with his medical profession and not indicative of any criminal intent. She further contended that such materials could be found in the homes of professionals from various fields, including bakers and lawyers. The defense also denied allegations regarding Dr. Rehman’s travel to Syria, clarifying that he had visited the country only once in 2013 with the humanitarian organization Doctors Without Borders and had not suffered any bullet injury as claimed by the NIA.
Advocate Pankaj also challenged the applicability of charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, referencing the Supreme Court’s decision in Vernon v State of Maharashtra, and argued that the evidence did not justify the charges brought against her client.
Court’s Observations
Despite acknowledging that Dr. Rehman has been incarcerated for over four years and eight months and recognizing his status as a young medical professional, the court found the defense’s arguments insufficient to warrant bail. The bench noted a three-month delay between the seizure of exhibits and their official production, acknowledging the possibility of tampering but ultimately concluding that this did not significantly strengthen the defense’s case.
The court firmly stated, “He is an MD from MS Ramaiah Medical College, but this does not give him a clean chit,” underscoring that professional qualifications cannot serve as grounds for exoneration in cases involving serious criminal allegations.
Next Steps
While denying the bail plea, the court granted Dr. Rehman the liberty to either withdraw the current appeal and approach an appropriate forum or allow the court to reserve an order in the appeal. The matter has been listed for further hearing on September 25, 2025, following the defense’s request to examine the main witness from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
Disclaimer:
This article is based on information reported by Medical Dialogues and other publicly available sources as of May 19, 2025. The details provided are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal or medical advice. The accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. For further updates, please refer to official court documents and statements from the concerned authorities.
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