Recently, Additional Sessions Judge (ASJ) Sunil Gupta of Saket Court, Delhi, granted bail to an accused who had been charged under various provisions of the Indian Penal Code, 1860 (IPC) in a case connected to interactions initiated through the dating app Bumble.

The accused, who faced charges under Sections 376, 377, 506, and 34 of the IPC, got arrested on December 16, 2023. The bail application was filed, citing the completion of the investigation and the accused's adherence to conditions during interim bail.

Taking into account factors such as the completion of the investigation and the accused's conduct during interim bail, the court imposed conditions which included posting a bail bond, making regular court appearances, refraining from contacting the complainant or her family, providing mandatory notification of address changes, and being subject to restrictions on international travel.

During the hearing, the defense emphasized the accused's commitment to complying with court conditions, citing legal precedents in support. Conversely, the prosecution opposed the bail application, highlighting the gravity of the charges and their potential impact on the trial process.

The court addressed concerns raised by the complainant's counsel regarding document availability, noting previous instances where the bail application was reviewed during court proceedings. Emphasizing the accused's right to life and liberty, the judge observed that his release on interim bail did not automatically warrant regular bail. Despite the complainant's submission regarding assurances given by the accused's relatives, the court deemed it irrelevant to the bail application.

The court granted bail to the accused upon furnishing a bail bond and sureties, imposing conditions to ensure trial integrity. These conditions included regular court appearances, no contact with the complainant or her family, notification of address changes, and restrictions on international travel.

 Case Title: State v. Gautam Kumar