An advocate who was arrested with two pistols at the Tis Hazari court complex in Delhi has been granted bail by a sessions court. The court, while granting bail, observed that there was no evidence to suggest that the accused was involved in any criminal activity or that the firearms were intended for unlawful purposes.
Details of the Incident
The advocate, identified as Rohit Kumar, was apprehended by security personnel at the Tis Hazari court complex on March 15, 2025, after a metal detector alerted them to the presence of firearms. Upon search, two pistols and several rounds of ammunition were recovered from his possession. He was immediately taken into custody and later charged under the Arms Act.
Court Proceedings
During the bail hearing, Rohit Kumar's counsel argued that the firearms were licensed and that his client had inadvertently carried them to the court complex due to a misunderstanding. The counsel further submitted that the advocate was a law-abiding citizen with no prior criminal record. The prosecution, however, opposed the bail, contending that the possession of firearms in a court complex posed a serious security threat.
After hearing both sides, Additional Sessions Judge Anjali Sharma noted that while the recovery of pistols was serious, the prosecution had failed to establish any criminal intent. The court stated, "The mere possession of licensed firearms, without any evidence of their intended misuse, does not warrant the denial of bail." The judge also directed the advocate to cooperate with the investigation and not tamper with evidence.
Conditions of Bail
The court granted bail on a personal bond of Rs 50,000 with one surety of the like amount. Additionally, the court imposed several conditions, including that the advocate must not leave the country without prior permission, must appear before the investigating officer as and when required, and must not attempt to influence witnesses.
Reactions and Implications
The Delhi Bar Association expressed mixed reactions to the bail order. Some members welcomed the decision, stating that the advocate was a respected member of the legal fraternity and should not be presumed guilty. Others, however, raised concerns about the security lapse and called for stricter protocols at court complexes.
Security experts have emphasized the need for better screening mechanisms at court premises to prevent such incidents. The Tis Hazari court complex, one of the busiest in Delhi, handles thousands of visitors daily, making security a significant challenge.
The case is set for further hearing on April 20, 2025, when the prosecution is expected to file additional evidence.
