New Delhi: The Supreme Court Tuesday directed real estate barons Sushil and Gopal Ansal, who were convicted in Uphaar fire tragedy case, not to leave the country without its permission.
"None of the appellants (Sushil and Gopal Ansal) shall leave this country without the leave of the court," a bench comprising justices B S Chauhan, J Chelameswar and Kurian Joseph said.
Earlier, on March 26, the apex court had expressed displeasure over Sushil Ansal leaving the country without its permission.
The bench, however, had allowed Ansal to stay in the US for medical treatment after senior advocate Ram Jethmalani, appearing for Ansal, gave an assurance that he will return on April 11.
Sushil Ansal`s counsel had later informed the apex court about his return.
The bench was hearing an application filed by the Association of Victims of Uphaar Fire Tragedy (AVUT) against Ansals travelling abroad without the court`s permission.
The Association contended that since Ansals have been convicted by the apex court, they cannot leave the country without the permission of the top court.
Further, it sought imposition of suitable conditions on the bail enjoyed by Ansals as no conditions were stipulated when they were granted bail on January 30, 2009.
The apex court on March 5, held Ansals guilty in the 1997 tragedy, saying they were more interested about making money than ensuring safety of the cinegoers.
The court had upheld the conviction of Sushil and Gopal Ansal for the tragedy that claimed the lives of 59 people.
