Bail application rejected for Indian Navy sailor accused of sharing sensitive military information with a Pakistani intelligence agent.
The Andhra Pradesh High Court has denied bail to Ashok Kumar Deg, a sailor in the Indian Navy, accused of leaking confidential information about naval movements to a Pakistani intelligence agent. The court upheld the decision of the lower court, emphasizing the gravity of the allegations, which involve national security concerns.
The case, which has garnered significant attention, involves serious charges under the National Investigation Agency Act, 2008, the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, and the Official Secrets Act, 1923. Ashok Kumar Deg was reportedly involved in a conspiracy to share sensitive naval information, including the movements of Indian Navy ships and submarines, in exchange for monetary compensation.
The High Court's decision on May 6, 2026, by Justices K. Suresh Reddy and Tuhin Kumar Gedela, was based on the unchanged circumstances since the previous rejection of bail. The court highlighted that the allegations relate to national security, and the trial is currently in progress. The prosecution, represented by Additional Solicitor General Challa Dhanunjay, argued that releasing Deg on bail could pose a risk to securing his presence at trial and could potentially compromise the investigation.
Deg has been in judicial custody since his arrest on December 19, 2019, and has faced multiple bail rejections. His counsel argued for bail citing the prolonged period of custody and the fact that co-accused had been sentenced to lesser terms after pleading guilty. However, the court noted that Deg had not pleaded guilty and emphasized the seriousness of the charges against him.
The court directed the Special Judge to expedite the trial, considering Deg's extended period in custody, ensuring the proceedings move forward swiftly.
This case serves as a reminder of the judiciary's cautious approach to matters involving national security, particularly when the allegations involve espionage and the potential compromise of military secrets.
Bottom line:-
Bail application under NIA Act involving allegations of sharing confidential naval information with a foreign agent - Factors for consideration include gravity of allegations, national security, and prior dismissal of bail application - Bail denied due to unchanged circumstances and ongoing trial.
Statutory provision(s): National Investigation Agency Act, 2008 Section 21(4), Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 Sections 17, 18, Official Secrets Act, 1923 Sections 3, 4, 5, Indian Penal Code, 1860 Sections 120-B, 201
Ashok Kumar Deg v. Union of India, (Andhra Pradesh)(DB) : Law Finder Doc id # 2895906
