Bail cancellation declined, but strict appearance directions imposed to ensure representation and expeditious trial progress.

Long-standing bail was not cancelled on the material then before the Court, despite allegations of evasion of service and repeated non-cooperation in the trial. The Court instead issued protective directions to secure the progress of the proceedings: the respondent was required to remain represented on every hearing date, and unjustified absence or non-representation could later justify cancellation of bail. The petitioner was left free to approach the trial court if non-cooperation continued, and the trial court was directed to proceed expeditiously. The result preserved bail for the time being while keeping cancellation open for future default.

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Issues: Whether the bail granted to the respondent was liable to be cancelled on the alleged grounds of evasion of service and repeated non-cooperation in the trial, and what directions were required to secure the progress of the proceedings.

Analysis: The bail had been granted nearly a decade earlier, and the Court was not persuaded to reopen the question of cancellation on the material placed before it. At the same time, the Court took note of the grievance that the respondent had allegedly avoided service and caused adjournments, and considered it necessary to ensure regular representation before the trial court and to facilitate continuation of the trial without obstruction.

Conclusion: The request for cancellation of bail was declined, but the respondent was directed to remain represented on every date of hearing, with the consequence that unjustified absence or non-representation could lead to cancellation of bail. The petitioner was also left at liberty to move the trial court in case of non-cooperation, and the trial court was directed to proceed expeditiously.

Final Conclusion: The petition was disposed of with protective directions to secure the respondent's presence and ensure expeditious trial, while leaving bail cancellation open upon future unjustified default.

Ratio Decidendi: Where long-standing bail is challenged for cancellation, the Court may decline cancellation on the existing material yet impose strict directions to secure representation and preserve the trial process, with cancellation reserved for future unjustified absence or non-cooperation.

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