Scot still facing the death penalty remains in 'grave danger' despite bail release, campaigners warn

From the Newshound archive · first published 1 October 2026 · last updated 2 October 2026.

Jagtar Singh Johal, 39, walked free from an Indian prison on Thursday after nearly nine years detained without conviction, but human rights group Reprieve warns he is still in grave danger. His passport has been surrendered, he faces stringent bail conditions in Delhi, and multiple remaining cases could still end in capital punishment. Campaigners and his local MP Douglas McAllister are now pressing the Foreign Office to strike a deal with the Indian government to bring him home.

Reprieve's Dan Dolan said Johal's confession — the basis for the terrorism charges — was extracted under torture and is 'completely trumped-up'.

Brother Gurpreet Singh Johal said nine years of 'setbacks and disappointments' meant he 'didn't dare believe it' until he saw Jagtar walk through the prison gates.

Ed Miliband is being challenged to 'push much harder' on securing Johal's return, with his MP warning the fight is far from over.