Accused would hinder probe can't be ground for bail refusal:HC

Justice R C Chavan, while granting bail to an advocate Deepak Sharma observed that the sessions court could not have rejected bail only on the ground that Sharma would interfere in the probe.

Sharma was arrested on January 4 this year by suburban Bhandup police for allegedly collaborating with his client, an accused in a cheating case, and forcibly securing possession of the premises of the complainant.

The sessions court rejected Sharma's bail plea on the ground that his release would cause interference in investigation and influence of witnesses. The court also held that granting bail at a juncture where probe was still on would jeopardise and demoralise not only the complainant and witnesses but also the investigation.

Justice Chavan, however, granted Sharma bail and observed, "This cannot be a ground for detaining the applicant (Sharma) in custody. This could be taken care of by imposing strict conditions on the applicant."

The High Court while granting Sharma bail on a personal bond of Rs 25,000 directed him to appear before the Bhandup police station on alternate days for a month.