Bail Granted with Strict Conditions Following Attack on Officials and Damage to Public Property
In a significant decision, the Kerala High Court has granted bail to Lenin Raj and other accused individuals involved in a high-profile case concerning an attack on Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials and damage to public property. The incident, which took place on May 27, 2026, involved an unlawful assembly that allegedly attacked ED officials and damaged vehicles during a lawful search operation. The accused were charged under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act, 1984.
Justice Kauser Edappagath, while granting bail under Section 483 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, imposed stringent conditions on the accused. The court highlighted the absence of serious injuries to the victims and the lack of criminal antecedents among the accused as key factors influencing the decision. Additionally, the substantial completion of the investigation was noted, reducing the necessity for continued detention.
The court directed the accused to deposit damages amounting to Rs. 10,000 each as a condition for bail, addressing the assessed loss of Rs. 2,20,000 to the vehicles used by the ED officials. The judgment emphasized the need for the accused to execute a bond of Rs. 1,00,000 each with two solvent sureties, cooperate with the ongoing investigation, and adhere to several restrictions including periodic appearances before the investigating officer and non-entry into specified jurisdictional limits.
The court warned that any violation of these bail conditions could lead to cancellation of the bail. The decision reflects a balanced approach, considering both the gravity of the alleged offenses and the rights of the accused, ensuring accountability and adherence to legal processes.
Bottom Line:
Bail application under Section 483 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS) - Bail granted to accused involved in serious offences including attacks on Enforcement Directorate officials and damage to public property, subject to stringent conditions and deposit of damages caused to vehicles as per the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act, 1984.
Statutory provision(s): Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 Section 483, Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act, 1984 Section 3(1), Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 Sections 126(2), 189(2), 191(2), 191(3), 296(b), 132, 121(1), 118(1), 109 r/w Section 190
Lenin Rajaged v. State of Kerala, (Kerala) : Law Finder Doc id # 2953776
