A sessions court in Bhopal on Monday rejected the bail application of the husband of a 31-year-old Noida woman, who allegedly died by suicide at her matrimonial home in Bhopal's Katara Hills on May 12. Judge Pallavi Dwivedi, who had granted anticipatory bail to the husband's mother, a retired district judge, on Saturday, denied bail to the husband, upholding the prosecution's contention that his custodial interrogation is essential. The court noted that being a lawyer, he may tamper with evidence and influence witnesses if granted bail.
Police Announce Reward
Meanwhile, police have announced a reward of Rs 10,000 for information leading to the arrest of the accused lawyer.
Prosecution's Arguments
The prosecution lawyers refuted the defense counsel's arguments that the deceased suffered from anxiety, depression, and psychological disorders, leading her to take her own life. They countered that even if that were true, it must be determined why a bright and joyful girl, who had acted in a film, participated in beauty pageants, and was Miss Pune, developed such conditions within five months of her marriage. "It must have been because of torture," the prosecution lawyer said.
Prosecution lawyer Ankur Pandey, speaking to TOI after the court order, stated that they pleaded with the court under Section 80(2) of the BNS relating to dowry death, which carries a sentence of seven years to life imprisonment. He emphasized that there is a presumption clause in such offenses, meaning the accused is presumed guilty unless proven otherwise.
Delay in Informing Police
The prosecution also raised questions about the delay in informing the police about the incident. The police only learned of the matter after the body reached AIIMS.
The police filed a separate application opposing anticipatory bail, arguing that the accused, being a lawyer from an influential family, should not be released on bail as he might tamper with evidence.
This case highlights the serious nature of dowry-related offenses and the court's commitment to ensuring justice for victims.
