Pre-trial bail after prolonged custody was allowed once charges were framed and similar relief had been granted to the main accused.

Prolonged pre-trial custody, with charges already framed, supported enlargement on bail pending trial where similar relief had been granted to the main accused. The SC directed production of the appellants before the Special Court and authorised release on appropriate terms, including regular attendance and cooperation for early disposal of the case.

---

---

Issues: Whether the appellants, having undergone incarceration for about one and a half years and charges having been framed, were entitled to be enlarged on bail pending trial.

Analysis: The appellants had remained in custody for a substantial period and the trial had progressed to the stage of framing of charges. The main accused had already been granted bail on similar reasoning, and the same considerations were applied to the present appellants. The Court directed their production before the Special Court and authorised enlargement on bail on appropriate terms and conditions, including regular attendance and cooperation for early disposal of the case.

Conclusion: The appellants were held entitled to bail pending trial.

---