Anticipatory bail granted under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and IT Act, 2008, subject to cooperation in investigation.
In a significant decision, the Supreme Court of India has granted anticipatory bail to Neha Singh Rathore, also known as Neha Kumari, amidst apprehensions of her arrest under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and the Information Technology Act, 2008. The legal dispute revolves around FIR No. 0111 of 2025, filed at Hazratganj Police Station, Lucknow, involving serious charges including Sections 196 and 302 of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, and Section 69(a) of the IT Act.
The bench, comprising Justices J.K. Maheshwari and Atul S. Chandurkar, delivered the ruling on March 10, 2026, emphasizing the importance of adherence to investigative cooperation and the conditions set forth under Section 482 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023.
The court had initially issued an interim relief on January 7, 2026, preventing any coercive actions against Neha, contingent upon her cooperation with the ongoing investigation. In its final order, the court confirmed the interim protection, allowing her anticipatory bail, provided she furnishes appropriate bail bonds and sureties.
The judgment further mandates Neha Singh Rathore to remain available for investigation and trial proceedings, cautioning that any breach of the conditions may lead to legal repercussions as deemed necessary by the trial court.
The decision underscores the judiciary's balanced approach in safeguarding individual liberties while ensuring compliance with legal processes. The case reflects ongoing debates surrounding the application of new legal frameworks like the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, in contemporary legal scenarios.
Bottom Line:
Anticipatory bail granted to petitioner apprehending arrest under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 and Information Technology Act, 2008, subject to cooperation in investigation and adherence to conditions.
Statutory provision(s): Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 Sections 196(1)(a), 196(1)(b), 197(1)(a), 197(1)(b), 197(1)(c), 197(1)(d), 353(1)(c), 353(2), 302, 152; Information Technology Act, 2008 Section 69(a); Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 Section 482.
Neha Singh Rathore @ Neha Kumari v. State of Uttar Pradesh, (SC) : Law Finder Doc id # 2864092
