Munna Babubhai Shaikh vs The State of Maharashtra

V.K. Tahilramani, J.—Heard both sides.

The applicant is seeking bail. The applicant has been convicted u/s 392 of I.P.C. and sentenced to R.I. for three years.

It is stated by the learned advocate for the applicant that the applicant was on bail pending the trial and this liberty has not been misused by him. This statement has not been controverted by the prosecution. It is further submitted by the learned advocate for the applicant that the maximum sentence imposed on the applicant is three years and this appeal is not likely to be heard within the said time. The learned A.P.P. has also handed over a report which states that the applicant has no other antecedents. The said report is taken on record and, marked "X" for identification.

The Supreme Court in the case of Bhagwan Rama Shinde Gosai and Others Vs. State of Gujarat, , has observed that if the sentence is of limited duration and the appeal cannot be heard expeditiously, then bail should be granted. It is not possible to hear the present appeal expeditiously. Looking to the above facts and the evidence on record, I am inclined to grant bail.

On fine amount being paid, the applicant Munna Babubhai Shaikh to be released on bail in the sum of Rs. 20,000/- with one or two sureties to make up the said amount. During the pendency of appeal, the applicant shall report on first and third Sunday of every month to Dindoshi police station.

Application is disposed of.