After prolonged incarceration, the Supreme Court orders the release of petitioners on bail, mandates trial cooperation.
In a significant development, the Supreme Court of India granted bail to Pawan Kumar Bishnoi and another petitioner, Jagtar Singh, who have been in custody since June and October 2022, respectively. The apex court's decision came in response to the Special Leave Petitions filed under criminal proceedings against the petitioners related to FIR No.103 of 2022 registered at Police Station City-1, Mansa, Punjab.
The decision, delivered by Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta, considered the lengthy period of incarceration and the specific circumstances surrounding the case. The court was persuaded by the arguments presented by the petitioners' legal representatives, led by Mr. Abhay Kumar and a team of advocates, who underscored the prolonged detention of their clients without conclusion of the trial.
In its order dated March 12, 2026, the Supreme Court directed the release of the petitioners on bail, subject to terms and conditions to be determined by the Trial Court. The court emphasized the necessity for the petitioners to cooperate fully with the ongoing trial processes.
Furthermore, the Supreme Court accorded liberty to the Trial Court and the State of Punjab to approach the apex court should they find the petitioners causing delays in the trial proceedings. This provision ensures that the judicial process remains uninterrupted and that the petitioners adhere to the legal processes post-release.
The legal fraternity views this judgment as a significant affirmation of the rights of the accused to a fair trial and timely judicial review, especially in instances of extended pre-trial detention. This case has been keenly watched for its implications on bail jurisprudence and the balance between individual liberties and judicial efficiency.
Bottom Line:
Bail granted to petitioners considering period of incarceration and case facts, subject to terms and conditions imposed by the Trial Court.
Statutory provision(s): Criminal Procedure Code (Bail provisions).
Pawan Kumar Bishnoi v. State of Punjab, (SC) : Law Finder Doc id # 2865485
