Court ensures NEET-2026 aspirant's exam participation while maintaining security, as bail request is denied for instigation of suicide charges.
In a recent ruling, the Chhattisgarh High Court denied a temporary bail plea for Kunal Tarunakar, who sought permission to appear for the NEET-2026 examination. Charged under Section 108 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 for allegedly instigating a suicide, Tarunakar remains in police custody. The court, however, accommodated his academic aspirations by allowing him to sit for the examination under police surveillance.
The application for temporary bail was presented by Tarunakar's counsel, Mr. Anukul Biswas, highlighting the applicant's preparation for the upcoming NEET examination scheduled on June 21, 2026. Biswas underscored the applicant's educational needs, urging the court to grant bail or allow the necessary arrangements for him to take the examination.
The State, represented by Ms. Palak Dwivedi, did not object to arrangements for the applicant’s exam appearance but opposed bail, citing substantial evidence against him concerning the instigation charge.
Presiding over the matter, Chief Justice Mr. Ramesh Sinha considered the balance between legal obligations and educational rights. Emphasizing justice and security, the court decided against granting temporary bail. Instead, it ordered that Tarunakar be escorted to the examination venue, Kendriya Vidyalaya in Raipur, under strict police custody.
The court further directed the Superintendent of Police and the Jail Superintendent to ensure Tarunakar's presence at the examination center. Additionally, it mandated that study materials be provided to him in jail to facilitate his preparation, adhering to jail regulations.
This decision reflects a judicial approach that respects academic pursuits while maintaining legal safeguards. It also underscores the court's emphasis on ensuring that individuals facing legal actions are not deprived of educational opportunities.
The case is set for further proceedings three weeks hence, as the charge-sheet is yet to be filed. The court instructed the Registrar (Judicial) to disseminate the order to relevant authorities for compliance.
Bottom Line:
Temporary bail for appearing in NEET examination denied; instead, arrangements made for the applicant to appear in the examination under police custody.
Statutory provision(s): Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 Section 108
Kunal Tarunakar v. State of Chhattisgarh, (Chhattisgarh) : Law Finder Doc id # 2927086
