Rajasthan High Court Grants Bail to 19-Year-Old Accused in Obscene Social Media Case

Bail Granted Under Strict Conditions to Safeguard Victim's Safety and Prevent Misuse of Social Media

In a significant judgment, the Rajasthan High Court's Jaipur Bench, presided over by Justice Ashok Kumar Jain, has granted bail to Akash, a 19-year-old accused in a case involving the editing, publishing, and sharing of obscene material related to a victim on social media platforms. The court acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations but considered the accused's future prospects and lack of prior criminal antecedents, deciding to grant bail under stringent conditions.

The case stems from an FIR registered on February 21, 2025, where the victim alleged that Akash had edited and published explicit photos and videos of her, further exploiting and blackmailing her. The charge sheet was filed under Section 78(2) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, and Sections 67 and 67A of the Information Technology Act, 2000.

During the hearing, the defense argued that Akash was falsely implicated and was no longer needed for investigation. The public prosecutor and the complainant's counsel opposed the bail, highlighting the gravity of the accusations and the potential threat to the victim's safety. However, Justice Jain noted the accused's young age, educational background, and lack of criminal history, considering these factors in his decision.

The bail is subject to several stringent conditions aimed at preventing further harm to the victim and misuse of social media. Akash must furnish a personal bond of Rs. 50,000/- along with two sureties of the same amount. He is prohibited from contacting the victim or her family, using social media platforms, or possessing any material related to the victim. Additionally, he must not tamper with evidence or influence witnesses and must attend all court hearings.

Justice Jain emphasized that any violation of these conditions would lead to an immediate revocation of bail. The court’s decision reflects a balanced approach, weighing the young accused’s future against the victim's safety and dignity.

Bottom Line:

Bail granted to the accused under stringent conditions to ensure safety and well-being of the victim and to prevent further misuse of social media platforms by the accused. 

Statutory provision(s): Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 Section 483, Information Technology Act, 2000 Sections 67 and 67A

Akash v. State of Rajasthan, (Rajasthan)(Jaipur Bench) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2782278