Bail pending trial granted with safeguards after custody, completed investigation, and parity with co-accused supported release.

Bail pending trial was granted where custody had continued for about six and a half months, investigation was complete, the final report had been filed, the case was said to be similar to that of co-accused already on bail, and no criminal antecedents were reported. The Court considered these factors sufficient to justify release, while imposing safeguards to secure the appellant's presence and protect the trial process. Conditions included residence outside Chhattisgarh, weekly attendance before the local police, non-interference with witnesses, and execution of bond and sureties.

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Issues: Whether the appellant was entitled to be released on bail pending trial despite rejection of bail by the High Court.

Analysis: The appellant had remained in custody for about six and a half months. The investigation had been completed and the final report had been filed. The case against the appellant was stated to be almost similar to that of co-accused persons who had already been granted bail. No criminal antecedents were reported against the appellant. In these circumstances, bail was considered fit to be granted, subject to safeguards to secure his presence and prevent interference with the trial.

Conclusion: The appellant was granted bail on conditions, including residence outside Chhattisgarh, weekly attendance before the local police, non-interference with witnesses, and execution of bond and sureties.

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