Court Balances Applicant's Youth and Custody Duration Against Serious Charges, Imposing Strict Bail Conditions
In a significant decision, the Gujarat High Court has granted bail to Rakshit Ravish Chorasiya, a 23-year-old accused involved in a fatal vehicular accident under the influence of banned substances. The incident, which resulted in injuries to nine individuals and the death of one person, has been a matter of intense legal scrutiny. The applicant, charged under various sections of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, and the Motor Vehicle Act, had been in custody for nine months before the court's decision on December 22, 2025.
Justice Nikhil S. Kariel, presiding over the case, considered several factors in granting bail, including the applicant's young age, the absence of serious prior criminal records, and the completion of the chargesheet filing. The court also acknowledged the influence of THC and Codeine on the applicant at the time of the accident, a point emphasized by the prosecution in opposing the bail.
Despite the prosecution's objections, the court exercised its discretion to allow bail, referencing the precedents set by the Supreme Court in similar cases. The decision was influenced by the prolonged detention of the applicant and the lack of utility in further incarceration, provided stringent conditions are imposed to prevent misuse of liberty.
The conditions for bail include a bond of Rs.1,00,000 with one surety, surrendering of the applicant's passport, restrictions on leaving Gujarat without court permission, and regular attendance at the local police station. These measures aim to ensure the applicant's compliance with legal protocols while awaiting trial.
This case draws attention to the judiciary's approach in balancing individual rights with public safety, especially in cases involving young offenders. The court's decision underscores the importance of rehabilitation and the potential for reform, while simultaneously setting a framework to mitigate risks associated with the applicant's release.
The judgment reflects the evolving landscape of legal accountability under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, as the judiciary navigates complex issues related to substance influence and vehicular offenses.
Bottom Line:
Bail - Applicant charged under Sections of Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 and Motor Vehicle Act for causing injuries and death in a vehicular accident while under the influence of prohibited substances - Bail granted considering applicant's young age, no serious antecedents, prolonged custody, and conditions imposed to ensure no misuse of liberty.
Statutory provision(s): Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 Section 483, Motor Vehicle Act Sections 134, 177, 184, 185
Rakshit Ravish Chorasiya v. State of Gujarat, (Gujarat) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2826197
