Supreme Court Sets Aside Bail In Uttar Pradesh Dowry Death Case

The Supreme Court of India has cancelled the bail granted by the Allahabad High Court to a man accused in a dowry death case from Uttar Pradesh, terming the relief ‘not sustainable in law’ and highlighting serious lapses in judicial discretion.

A Bench of Justices JB Pardiwala and Vijay Bishnoi allowed the appeal filed by the deceased woman’s father and directed the accused husband to surrender within one week, failing which coercive action may follow.

The case pertains to the death of a woman in Ghaziabad on July 11, 2024, within seven years of her marriage in February 2019.

An FIR alleged persistent dowry demands despite significant expenses during the marriage, including cash, jewellery and a car, along with further demands for an SUV and Rs 10 lakh.

The complaint detailed allegations of physical and mental harassment, including assault and threats to the woman’s life.

Investigation led to a charge sheet against the husband and his parents under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961.

Court Observations

The High Court had granted bail in August 2025, citing cause of death as asphyxia due to ante-mortem hanging and delay in filing the FIR.

The apex court, however, termed this an ‘egregious error’ and said the allegations clearly disclosed more than a prima facie case.

Referring to the post-mortem report, the court noted multiple ante-mortem injuries and a ligature mark, observing that it prima facie suggested strangulation. It also invoked the statutory presumption under Section 118 of the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023, given the death occurred within seven years of marriage.

Expressing concern over increasing dowry deaths, the court said such crimes remain a serious societal issue, particularly in states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Karnataka. It cited official data showing 6,156 dowry deaths nationwide in 2023, with Uttar Pradesh recording the highest number.

The court cautioned judges against issuing bail orders that suggest people take serious crimes against women lightly. It clarified that the observations applied only to the bail stage and should not influence the trial.

The trial court has been directed to conclude proceedings expeditiously, preferably within one year.

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