Ram Pal, in custody for over 11 years, secures bail as court considers prolonged detention and advanced age.
In a significant ruling, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has granted regular bail to 75-year-old Ram Pal, who has been in custody for over 11 years. The decision comes as the court considered the long duration of his detention, his advanced age, and the slow progress of the trial.
Ram Pal, the appellant, had been denied bail by the Additional Sessions Judge, Hisar, in September 2025. The case against him and over 900 co-accused stems from an incident where they allegedly obstructed police efforts to execute an arrest warrant at the Satlok Ashram. The accused are charged with creating a human shield of women and children, and allegedly inciting violence against police officers attempting to carry out the warrant. This resulted in injuries to police personnel and damage to police property.
Represented by Senior Advocate Mr. Vinod Ghai and his team, Ram Pal argued that he had been in custody since December 2014 and that the trial's conclusion was nowhere in sight. Of the 425 prosecution witnesses, only 58 had been examined, with the trial expected to continue for an extended period. It was also noted that many co-accused had already been granted bail.
The State opposed the bail, citing the serious nature of the charges against Ram Pal, including allegations of organizing violent resistance against law enforcement. However, the court, comprising Judges Gurvinder Singh Gill and Ramesh Kumari, highlighted the appellant's long incarceration and his age as compelling reasons for granting bail.
In its judgment, the court emphasized the importance of not promoting "mob mentality" and maintaining peace, law, and order. The bail is conditional, requiring Ram Pal to avoid activities that could incite violence or disorder. Any breach of these conditions could lead to the cancellation of his bail.
This decision underscores the judiciary's consideration of human rights and the need for timely trials while balancing the interests of justice. The court's ruling also reflects a recognition of the challenges posed by delayed judicial processes, especially for aged individuals.
Bottom Line:
Long incarceration of the accused-appellant, coupled with advanced age and delayed trial, are valid grounds for granting regular bail.
Statutory provision(s): Criminal Procedure Code, 1973 Section 439
Ram Pal v. State of Haryana, (Punjab And Haryana)(DB) : Law Finder Doc id # 2880388
