Pre-trial custody and delayed trial justified bail, with the Supreme Court ordering release on terms pending conclusion of trial.

Prolonged pre-trial custody, with no charge framed and no realistic prospect of trial commencing soon, justified release on bail. The SC applied the governing principles for bail in such circumstances and held that continued detention was not warranted pending trial. Bail was therefore granted, and the appellant was directed to be enlarged on appropriate terms and conditions until the trial concludes.

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Issues: Whether the appellant, in prolonged custody with no immediate prospect of trial commencing and charge not yet framed, was entitled to be enlarged on bail pending trial.

Analysis: The appellant had remained in custody for about one year and nine months after arrest, charge had not been framed, and the trial was not likely to commence in the near future. Applying the governing principles for grant of bail in such circumstances, the Court found that continued detention was not justified pending trial.

Conclusion: Bail was granted and the appellant was directed to be enlarged on appropriate terms and conditions till the conclusion of the trial.

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