Suna Barik vs State Of Odisha

B. P. Routray, J

Heard Mr. A. Pradhan, learned counsel for the Petitioner as well as Mr. K. Das, learned A.S.C. for the State-Opposite Party.

This is an application under Sec.439 Cr.P.C. for bail and the offence alleged is under Sec.20(b)(ii)(C) of the NDPS Act for alleged possession of contraband ganja weighing 50 kg. 980 grams.

It is submitted on behalf of the Petitioner that he is inside custody since 11.07.2019 and the trial has not yet completed despite the earlier order passed by this Court to complete the trial expeditiously. In the meantime, only six witnesses have been examined.

After hearing Mr. K. Das, learned Additional Standing Counsel for the State-Opposite Party, I am not inclined to release the Petitioner on bail keeping in view the embargo contained in Section 37(1)(b) of the NDPS Act. The prayer for bail is rejected.

However, considering long period of detention of the Petitioner inside custody and slow progress in trial, it is directed to release the Petitioner on interim bail for a further period of three months from the date of his release in connection with Nandpur P.S. Case No.35/2019 corresponding to T.R. Case No.16/2019 on such terms and conditions to be fixed by learned Addl. Sessions Judge-cum-Special Judge, Koraput as he deems just and proper including the condition that the Petitioner shall furnish two sureties (with proper identity proof) out of which one shall be his relative and that, he shall not be involved in any other offence while on bail and shall attend the trial court on each date fixed.

It is made clear that the Petitioner shall surrender in the trial court on or before 14th August, 2023, failing which learned trial court shall take appropriate steps including issuance of NBW of arrest to apprehend him.

The BLAPL is disposed of.

An urgent certified copy of this order be granted on proper application.

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