In a significant development in the 2002 high-profile Nitish Katara murder case, convict Vikas Yadav, serving a life sentence, has been temporarily relieved by the Supreme Court for Holi. The Supreme Court has allowed his release on furlough from February 28 to March 7, enabling him to celebrate the festival with his family.
According to PTI, the Supreme Court bench, comprising Justices M.M. Sundresh and Vipul M. Pancholi, clarified that Vikas Yadav must surrender before March 7, 5 PM.
23 Years Behind Bars
During the hearing, the court noted that Vikas Yadav has spent nearly 23 years in prison. He requested furlough on the grounds of wanting to spend time with his family during Holi. The bench stated, 'Without delving into the merits of the case, we grant the petitioner furlough until March 7.'
During the hearing, the complainant opposed the furlough, which the court dismissed. Justice Sundresh remarked that such relief can sometimes aid in the rehabilitation of the convict.
High Court Rejected the Plea
Earlier, on February 11, the Delhi High Court rejected Vikas Yadav’s 21-day furlough plea. The High Court stated he is a convict in a serious crime and according to the Delhi Jail Rules, 2018, is not statutorily eligible for furlough. His furlough application was denied by the jail administration on October 29, 2025, prompting him to approach the court. The High Court found no arbitrariness or violation of constitutional rights in the jail administration's decision.
What is Furlough?
Furlough is neither pardon nor suspension of the sentence; it temporarily releases inmates serving long sentences. Its purpose is to keep the convict connected with family and society and encourage their rehabilitation process.
The Case Background
On the night of February 16-17, 2002, Nitish Katara was abducted and murdered after a wedding party. Investigations revealed his alleged romantic involvement with Bharti Yadav, opposed by Vikas Yadav and his cousin Vishal Yadav. On October 3, 2016, the Supreme Court sentenced Vikas Yadav and Vishal Yadav to 25 years (without remission), while co-convict Sukhdev Yadav received 20 years. Vikas Yadav is the son of Uttar Pradesh politician D.P. Yadav.
