Despite the seriousness of the allegations, regular bail was...

Despite the seriousness of the allegations, regular bail was granted because the petitioner had remained in custody for more than five years and nine months while the trial progressed slowly and substantial prosecution evidence still remained. The Court applied the principle that an accused cannot be kept in custody indefinitely before guilt is proved, and held that prolonged incarceration, together with incomplete examination of witnesses, justified release on bail. Bail was made subject to furnishing bonds and compliance with conditions against influencing witnesses or tampering with evidence, with liberty to seek cancellation if misused.