Supreme Court Grants Bail to Desh Raj in High-Profile Himachal Pradesh Case

Interim Bail Order Made Absolute Following Petitioner's Cooperation with Investigation

In a significant development, the Supreme Court of India has granted bail to Desh Raj, the petitioner in the high-profile case against the State of Himachal Pradesh. The decision came after the petitioner demonstrated substantial cooperation with the ongoing investigation, as observed by the court.

The bench, comprising Justice Ahsanuddin Amanullah and Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra, heard the petition for Special Leave to Appeal (Crl.) No. 4889 of 2025. During the proceedings, Mr. Siddhartha Dave, Senior Advocate for the petitioner, presented arguments in favor of Desh Raj, while Mr. Anup Rattan, Senior Advocate, represented the State of Himachal Pradesh.

The Supreme Court's order followed a submission by Mr. S.D. Sanjay, Additional Solicitor General, who presented a sealed report from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The contents of this report, which played a crucial role in the court's decision, remain undisclosed as the investigation is still active. Nonetheless, the court acknowledged the petitioner's cooperation, which was pivotal in converting the interim bail order into an absolute one.

In its order, the court specified that Desh Raj is to be released on bail in the event of his arrest or surrender within three weeks from the date of the order. The bail is subject to terms and conditions to be determined by the concerned lower court. The court also emphasized the importance of the petitioner's continued cooperation with the investigation and trial, stating that any breach of the conditions would result in the cancellation of bail.

The case, which has garnered significant public and media attention, involves serious charges, the details of which are currently under investigation. The court's decision marks a crucial juncture in the proceedings, allowing Desh Raj temporary relief while underscoring the need for adherence to legal obligations during the investigation process.

Bottom Line:

Interim order for bail made absolute considering cooperation of petitioner with the investigation. Petitioner directed to be released on bail subject to conditions imposed by the concerned Court, with an obligation to cooperate in the investigation/trial.

Statutory provision(s): Criminal Procedure Code, 1973

Desh Raj v. State of Himachal Pradesh, (SC) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2809517