Dhannu Paswan v. The State of Bihar
Bail – Offences under Sections 396 and 412, Indian Penal Code
Case brief
What is this about?
Patna High Court, Criminal Miscellaneous No.3981 of 2026, order dated 24-02-2026, Khatim Reza, J. Bail application under Sections 396/412 IPC in Athmalgola PS Case No.28 of 1987 (1987 dacoity-cum-bomb death case, District Patna). Petitioner Dhannu Paswan (65) arrested 20.06.2025; co-accused Kauleshwar Paswan and Mannu Paswan acquitted 25.11.2010 in ST No.226 of 1988. Bail rejected at this stage on conduct/evasion contention of the State; trial to be completed preferably within 3 months, day-to-day if needed; liberty to renew bail if trial not concluded in time. Keywords: bail rejection, prolonged trial, Sections 396 412 IPC, dacoity, expeditious trial direction.
What did the court decide?
Bail refused at this stage; trial Court directed to expedite and conclude the trial preferably within three months (day-to-day hearing if necessary); liberty reserved to the petitioner to renew the bail prayer if the trial is not concluded within the stipulated period.