Punjab and Haryana High Court Denies Bail to Accused in Drunken Driving Case
Jagtar Singh's Third Bail Petition Rejected Due to Lack of Change in Circumstances and Seriousness of Offence
In a significant ruling, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has dismissed the third bail petition filed by Jagtar Singh, accused of causing death by drunken driving. The decision was pronounced by Justice Sumeet Goel, who underscored the gravity of the offence and societal impact over individual liberty.
Jagtar Singh, a senior citizen, has been in custody since November 2023 following a tragic incident on October 31, 2023, where his alleged reckless driving resulted in the death of Arshdeep Singh, a young MBBS student. The FIR states that Singh was driving heavily drunk when he hit the parked car of the complainant, Jagmail Singh, leading to the death of his son.
Despite being his third attempt at securing bail, the court found no substantial change in circumstances since the previous petitions, which were withdrawn without adjudication on merits. Justice Goel highlighted that for successive bail petitions to be considered, there must be a material change in circumstances, which was absent in this case.
The counsel for Jagtar Singh argued his age and prolonged custody, citing undue hardship due to pre-trial detention. However, the state counsel countered these arguments, emphasizing the seriousness of the allegations and potential risks to public safety if Singh were released.
Justice Goel noted the critical societal impact of drunken driving and the necessity to prioritize collective safety over individual liberty. The court referenced precedents that underline the necessity of substantial change in circumstances for considering successive bail petitions.
The High Court's decision reflects a firm stance against drunken driving and highlights the judiciary's role in safeguarding public interest. The court dismissed the petition, asserting that granting bail could send a wrong signal and potentially embolden similar reckless conduct.
Bottom Line:
Bail - Repeated bail petitions - Factors to consider for successive bail petitions, including substantial change in circumstances, gravity of the offence, societal impact, and public safety.
Statutory provision(s): Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 Section 483, Criminal Procedure Code, 1973 Section 362, Indian Penal Code, 1860 Section 304
Jagtar Singh v. State of Punjab, (Punjab And Haryana) : Law Finder Doc id # 2783524
