Socio-Economic Factors to be Considered
The Allahabad High Court has advised district courts against imposing overly burdensome bail conditions that hinder an accused person’s release from jail. The court emphasized that trial courts must consider the socio-economic conditions of the accused when setting bail terms. It highlighted that stringent conditions could effectively negate the purpose of granting bail, particularly impacting those who are poor or from marginalized communities.
Case of Armaan from Agra
Justice Ajay Bhanot issued this advice while granting bail to Armaan from Agra, who had been in jail since September 13, 2020. Armaan, booked under the UP Gangster Act at Thana Etmadpur, Agra, had his bail plea rejected by a lower court. The High Court intervened after Armaan approached it, citing that his bail plea had been denied despite his disclosure of criminal history, cooperation in the investigation, and no risk of absconding.
The High Court noted that although the lower court had granted bail in other cases against Armaan, his release was hindered due to his inability to meet the bail conditions. The court directed the Agra District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) to assist Armaan in depositing the bail amount and completing other release formalities.
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