Bail Pending Incomplete Investigation Granted Despite Serious Allegations and Prima Facie Involvement, Subject to Stringent Conditions

Continued judicial custody pending an incomplete investigation justified bail, even though the allegations were serious and the materials collected so far indicated prima facie involvement. The Court noted that no recovery was made from the petitioner, the investigation had not been completed, and the final report had not been filed. Bail was granted to secure the investigation and prevent interference with evidence, subject to stringent conditions.

---

---

Issues: Whether the petitioner was entitled to bail on the ground that the investigation had not been completed and he had remained in judicial custody for a sufficient period.

Analysis: The petitioner was in custody since 29-6-2021, no recovery was effected from him, and the investigating agency had not completed the investigation or filed the final report. Though the allegations were serious and the materials collected so far indicated prima facie involvement, the continued detention without completion of investigation entitled him to bail. The Court granted release on stringent conditions to secure the investigation and prevent interference with evidence.

Conclusion: The petitioner was entitled to bail, and the application was allowed subject to conditions.

---