At today's hearing, Additional Soilicitor General SV Raju submitted that the medical records relied on by the petitioner were prepared by a team consisting of his brother-in-law. Accordingly, a fresh medical assessment was sought.

The ASG also pressed for CCTV cameras within all rooms to be part of the restrictions placed, apart from not being allowed to contact witnesses.

Justice Roy expressed the Bench's disagreement with the former, with the top court judge pointing out how the ASG had earlier relied on the same reports to say mattresses will be provided to Navlakha in jail.

"You are trying to make an argument of prejudice, his [doctor who is the brother-in-law] was one of many specialists' opinions. If one of them is related will it make the report biased? Please be responsible with your arguments."

When the ASG kept repeating this submission, Justice Roy further remarked,

"Give us the indulgence that we have understood your submissions. Please do not repeat it. Unless you have some concern that we have diffculty understanding you."

The ASG then submitted that a platoon of security officers, funded by the petitioner, may be directed to be stationed outside the place of house arrest.

Justice Joseph then said, "You are asking for so much for a 70-year-old."

Later on in the hearing, the Bench suggested that 3 police personnel be stationed in 8-hour shifts, which the counsel for the NIA and Maharashtra government agreed to.

On the aspect of the CCTV cameras, the Bench stated that it would have to maintain the right to privacy of the petitioner and his companion. It took into account the fact the Navlakha had acted as an interlocutor appointed by the government to negotiate with Maoists to release kidnapped security personnel.

"It is unlikely that the case will make any progress towards culmination in the foreseeable future, with charges not being framed. The petitioner has been in custody for two years. There appear to be no, prima facie, complaints regarding his earlier house arrest."

The order notes that the names of counsel allowed to visit Navlakha will be furnished within three days. The judges also directed that a local surety of Rs 3 lakh be paid.

"Any deviation or misuse [of the house-arrest terms] by the petitioner or his companion shall be viewed strictly upon being brought to the notice of this Court, and may entail cancellation of the house arrest."

Supreme Court extends house arrest of Gautam Navlakha by a month