Chennai Court Grants Interim Bail for Medical Treatment in High-Profile Murder Case
A city court in Chennai has granted interim bail to advocate G Arul, who is listed as accused number four in the murder case of BSP Tamil Nadu unit leader K Armstrong. The bail was specifically approved to allow the accused to seek necessary medical treatment.
Police Escort Shortages During Election Duties Cited as Key Reason
Principal Sessions Judge S Karthikeyan issued the interim order after noting that the police were unable to provide adequate escort services for prisoners requiring hospital visits. This shortage was attributed to the heavy deployment of police personnel for election-related law and order duties across the city.
The court highlighted that in the current month alone, the Chennai Commissioner of Police reported at least five instances where large numbers of police were needed for security arrangements. This situation has forced the state to request extensions of remand through video conferences instead of producing prisoners in person.
Prosecution's Objections Overruled by the Court
Despite strong objections from the prosecution, the court proceeded with granting bail. The prosecution had argued that:
- The accused should first be evaluated by a board of government doctors to verify the authenticity of his medical claims
- If treatment was genuinely needed, it could be provided at Stanley Medical Hospital itself
- Granting bail might result in the state losing full control over the accused
- There was a risk that the petitioner could misuse his liberty and potentially commit further crimes
Court's Deliberations and Conditions Imposed
In his order, Judge Karthikeyan stated, "This court has given its thoughtful consideration to the rival submissions put forth by either side. On careful perusal of records, it is found that the accused herein was arrested on July 6, 2024, and was in incarceration for 572 days. Though the petitioner is facing serious allegations, he presented the petition for bail on medical grounds."
The court imposed specific conditions for the bail:
- The accused must appear and sign before the court daily at 10:30 AM when not hospitalized
- He is required to surrender on April 10 at 10:30 AM
- The bail is strictly for medical treatment purposes
This development comes amid heightened security concerns during election periods, where police resources are stretched thin between regular duties and election security requirements. The case continues to draw significant attention as it involves the murder of a prominent political figure in Tamil Nadu.
