Bail granted due to prolonged custody, lack of direct involvement, and emphasis on constitutional rights.
In a significant ruling, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has granted bail to Dimple, a petitioner accused in the high-profile case concerning the alleged murder of Charis Goyal. The decision, delivered by Justice Surya Partap Singh, emphasized the principles of presumption of innocence and the right to a speedy trial as enshrined under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution.
The case originated from FIR No. 21, lodged on March 11, 2025, at Police Station Maur, District Bathinda. Dimple, along with others, was implicated under Sections 103, 238, 239, and 249 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) following the tragic death of Charis Goyal, whose body was discovered in a canal.
During the proceedings, the court highlighted several critical factors that led to the decision to grant bail. Firstly, Dimple has been in custody for over nine and a half months without substantial progress in the trial. Secondly, findings from the Special Investigation Team (SIT) revealed that Dimple was not actively involved in the murder. The SIT's investigation, which utilized scientific tools, revealed no direct evidence linking Dimple to the crime scene during the incident.
The court also noted that the trial is unlikely to conclude soon and that Dimple's continued detention would not serve any meaningful purpose. As a female detainee, the court considered a lenient view appropriate. Furthermore, there was no indication that Dimple would tamper with evidence or fail to cooperate with the trial if released on bail.
The judgment referenced several Supreme Court decisions, including 'Dataram v. State of Uttar Pradesh' and 'Satender Kumar Antil v. Central Bureau of Investigation,' which reinforce the importance of granting bail as a general rule and underscore the constitutional right to a speedy trial.
Justice Singh concluded that, considering the prolonged custody, lack of direct involvement, and the overarching principles of justice, Dimple was entitled to bail. The court ordered her release upon furnishing personal and surety bonds, subject to conditions ensuring her cooperation with the ongoing trial.
Bottom Line:
Bail granted to petitioner accused under Section 103 of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) due to prolonged custody, lack of direct involvement in the commission of murder, and adherence to principles of presumption of innocence and right to a speedy trial.
Statutory provision(s):
- Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, Section 103
- Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, Section 483
- Constitution of India, 1950, Article 21
Dimple v. State of Punjab, (Punjab And Haryana) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2837453
