Recent changes to the Indian Penal Code sought to make bail easier and more accessible. A stipulation was that if the government unnecessarily delays presenting the case, the accused should be granted bail instead of being held in jail.
Under this provision, some accused in political and criminal cases recently received bail. But people’s behavior is unique. Bail does not mean acquittal; it simply means the trial will continue as usual, and the judicial court will deliver its verdict in due course, deciding whether the accused will be found guilty and punished, or acquitted if found innocent.
The attitude of the Indian judicial system is still that of adjournment. Even the decision on bail of the accused takes years. In such a situation, an accused released on bail starts presenting an image of himself as innocent and victorious.
India’s top court recently gave an order to Haryana Police in this matter. In this case, the accused who was granted bail in a criminal case, after being released, was trying to enhance his image with the help of his supporters and was taking out victory processions.
Since the case was criminal, witnesses were also being threatened. When the victory procession was taken out, the Supreme Court reprimanded him.
The court ordered the accused to surrender and request bail. His petition will then be heard again and a decision will be made. It is unjustifiable to hold a procession after being released on bail.
This incident occurred in Charkhi Dadri, Haryana, but why limit this order to that area? It has been observed that individuals with political taint, corruption, and various crimes, upon being released on bail, display a triumphant display as if they have emerged unscathed or as if the law has recognized their innocence.
However, the Supreme Court has stated that release on bail does not equate to innocence. The final verdict in the case will determine whether punishment or an honorable release will be given.
Holding a victory procession after being granted bail is tantamount to influencing the case and intimidating witnesses. Therefore, such tactics will
not be permitted.