Manu v. State of Karnataka
Case brief
What is this about?
Anticipatory bail, Karnataka High Court, CRL.P No.17329 of 2025, decided 14-01-2026, Justice Shivashankar Amaranannavar. Rural Post Master (aged 24) accused of creating documents and withdrawing deceased persons' old-age pension deposits in Crime No.223/2025, Vemagal Police Station, Kolar; offences under Sections 318(2), 336(3), 340(2) BNS 2023, triable by Magistrate, not punishable with death/life imprisonment; no criminal antecedents. Misappropriation figures: Rs.91,600/- (counsel's contention) vs Rs.19,600/- (Court-recorded total; admitted in letter to Police). Petition under Section 482 BNSS / Section 438 Cr.PC allowed; bail on Rs.1,00,000/- personal bond with one surety; conditions include appearance before Investigating Officer within 10 days, cooperation, and no inducement/tampering.
What did the court decide?
Anticipatory bail granted in Crime No.223/2025 of Vemagal Police Station; petitioner ordered to be released on bail in the event of his arrest, subject to conditions: (i) personal bond of Rs.1,00,000/- with one surety for the like-sum to the satisfaction of the Investigating Officer; (ii) voluntary appearance before the Investigating Officer within 10 days to execute bail bond and furnish surety; (iii) cooperation with the Investigating Officer in investigation; (iv) appearance before the Investigating Officer whenever called for; (v) no inducement, threat or promise to any person acquainted with the facts so as to dissuade disclosure or tamper with evidence.