Bombay High Court Grants Bail in 2018 Arms Haul Case

The Bombay High Court granted bail to five individuals arrested by the Maharashtra ATS for their involvement in a 2018 arms haul case. The court cited insufficient evidence to prove the conspiracy charge related to an alleged plot to attack Pune's Sunburn festival, and noted the lengthy incarceration of the accused.

The Bombay High Court has granted bail to five individuals arrested by the Maharashtra Anti Terrorism Squad (ATS) in connection with a 2018 arms haul case. The court cited insufficient evidence to substantiate the conspiracy charge that the accused plotted to attack the Sunburn festival in Pune.

A division bench comprising Justices Bharati Dangre and Manjusha Deshpande noted the prolonged incarceration of the accused and the improbability of a timely trial. The court emphasized the fundamental right to a speedy trial, spotlighting the issue given the prosecution's intent to examine 417 witnesses.

According to the prosecution, the accused were linked to right-wing groups and planned to disrupt the festival. Despite these allegations, the court stressed that none of the attacks were executed and granted bail with conditions, including a personal bond of Rs 50,000 and monthly appearances before the ATS.

(With inputs from agencies.)