David Andrew Luke, the long-serving principal of Boys’ High School & College in Prayagraj, has secured interim protection from arrest after being granted anticipatory bail in a criminal case involving allegations of document forgery and fraud.
The court order comes as a temporary relief for Luke, who has been associated with the prestigious institution for decades.
The MP/MLA Special Court, presided over by Special Judge Yogesh, issued the bail order after hearing arguments from both the prosecution and Luke’s legal counsel.
An FIR was earlier lodged at the Civil Lines Police Station under sections 420, 467, 468, 471, and 506 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
Court’s Observations & Conditions
The court stated that it would release Luke immediately on personal bond along with sureties if authorities detain him. He must also cooperate fully with the police investigation and must not tamper with any evidence.
The court observed that it did not require custodial interrogation, given that the case primarily centred around documentary evidence. It added that protection from arrest was justified under the current circumstances.
Morris Edgar Dan alleged that David Andrew Luke forged a 2012 marksheet bearing his signature and filed the case.
Dan claimed irregularities in school documents and administrative malpractice under Luke’s tenure. The charges include cheating, forgery of documents, use of forged documents, and criminal intimidation.
Luke’s lawyer argued that his client had been falsely implicated and had always carried out his duties as an administrator with integrity. The defence maintained that the case lacked any element of criminal intent and was purely documentary in nature.
This case has drawn attention due to the historical significance of the institution and Luke’s long-standing position.
As investigations proceed, all eyes will be on how the evidence unfolds and whether further legal action will follow.
For now, the court has offered reprieve but underscored the importance of cooperation and transparency in the legal process.
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