The DRDO data leak case, which occurred in 2015 and pertains to sensitive national security information, saw a new development in Balasore, Odisha. Asif Ali, alleged to be a terrorist affiliated with Pakistan’s ISI, was presented before the Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMFC) court on Friday. He was brought to Balasore from Meerut Jail under a production warrant.
Asif Ali faces accusations of supplying weapons and ammunition to the ISI, which were to be used in terrorist activities. He was arrested from Meerut in 2015. Ishwar Behera, a cameraman stationed at the Chandipur DRDO center, was also implicated in the case.
Investigations revealed that Ishwar Behera had passed sensitive DRDO data to Pakistan. Asif Ali’s involvement went beyond mere conspiracy, actively participating in supplying arms and providing technical information.
Ishwar Behera has already been sentenced to life imprisonment. The legal proceedings against Asif Ali continue, with serious charges including sedition, criminal conspiracy, and national security violations.
Asif Ali’s bail plea was rejected by the court during the hearing. Assistant Legal Defense Counsel Rajiv Kumar Pani confirmed that the accused faces serious charges under IPC sections 120(B), 121(A), and the Official Secrets Act.
Security agencies are treating the case as a significant security alert for the nation. The DRDO center in Balasore is critical for Indian defense research, and the leak of associated information poses a serious threat to national security.
The court premises were heavily secured during Asif Ali’s appearance. Police and intelligence agencies were deployed to prevent any security incidents. The court denied bail to Asif Ali.