India Grants Bail to British Sikh Blogger Jagtar Singh Johal After Years in Detention

NEW DELHI: India has released British Sikh blogger Jagtar Singh Johal on bail after nearly six years of detention, during which he faced allegations of plotting to kill right-wing Hindu leaders. Johal, who was arrested in November 2017 while in India for his wedding, walked out of Tihar Jail on Thursday, greeted by family members with flowers.

Johal, originally from Dumbarton, Scotland, was acquitted of one terrorism-related charge in March 2025, but his trial continues on eight remaining charges, including conspiracy to murder. His brother, Gurpreet Singh Johal, expressed relief and disbelief at the news, stating, “There have been so many setbacks and disappointments in the last nine years that I didn’t dare to believe it until I saw Jagtar walking out of the prison gates with my own eyes.” He emphasized that the fight for justice continues as Johal still faces the death penalty.

The release of Johal has drawn attention to the broader implications of India’s approach to dissent and the treatment of individuals accused of terrorism. Human rights advocates have long criticized the Indian government for its handling of cases involving minority communities, raising concerns about the potential for political motivations behind such charges.

As Johal navigates the ongoing legal proceedings, his family and supporters remain vigilant, advocating for his complete exoneration. The case is expected to attract further scrutiny from international human rights organizations and could influence India’s diplomatic relations, particularly with the UK.