2G spectrum scam accused move HC against shifting of trial to Tihar Jail

NEW DELHI: The accused in 2G spectrum case today approached the Delhi High Court challenging its administrative decision to shift the trial in the case from its present venue at Patiala House courts to high-security Tihar Jail.

Around 15 defence lawyers mentioned the matter before a bench of justices S K Kaul and Rajiv Shakdher and sought its intervention on the decision to shift the trial saying it would cause a lot of inconvenience to the lawyers and the accused.

"This case is not related to any terrorist activity where there is a security threat. It is only a case of economic offence that does not warrant this decision," one of the defence lawyers said in the packed courtroom.

"Moreover, bigger courtrooms are already available in the Patiala House court complex where the trial could be conducted," he said.

Justice Kaul responded to the plea by saying, "I will personally meet the acting Chief Justice and take up the matter...

"Suppose, you do not get adequate relief, then you can always move a writ petition on the issue," he observed.

The court also said that the decision to shift the trial was an administrative one which had been taken by the acting chief justice, and he should be consulted on it. The bench asked the lawyers to approach it again later today.