Geetanjali Behera v. State Of Odisha

IN THE HIGH COURT OF ORISSA AT CUTTACK

ABLAPL No.12620 of 2020 Geetanjali Behera & Another ....

Petitioners Mr. A.C. Behera, Advocate -versusState of Odisha & Another ....

Opposite Parties Mr. D.R. Parida, ASC

CORAM:

MR. JUSTICE D.DASH

ORDER

29.04.2022 04.

1.

This matter is taken up through hybrid arrangement Order No.

(physical/virtual) mode.

2.

Learned counsel for the Petitioners submits that these Petitioners being the in-laws of the deceased have been unnecessarily arraigned in the case as the deceased committed suicide. He further submits that the allegation with regard to demand of dowry and torture upon the deceased for nonfulfillment of the same are all false and have been made in a general manner that these Petitioners were joining with others in that. He submits that the doctor conducting PM examination has given the opinion that the death is on account of asphyxia resulting from ante-mortem hanging and he has also not noticed any such external injury suggestive of physical torture upon the deceased sometime before the incident. It is submitted that these Petitioners being under interim protection since 12.11.2020 have co-operated with the investigation as and when called for without misusing the liberty. In view of all

// 2 // these above, he urges for grant of anticipatory bail to these Petitioners.

3.

Learned counsel for the State does not dispute the position that the Doctor holding the post mortem examination has opined the death is due to ante mortem hanging. According to him, the death having not taken place under normal circumstances; on the face of the allegations as to demand and torture, complicity of these Petitioners at this stage stands drawn by virtue of presumption available under Section-113A & 113B of the Evidence Act.

4.

Considering the submissions and on going through the nature of accusations; further keeping in view the surrounding circumstances of the case as also concerning the Petitioner and in the absence of any other impediment, it is directed that in the event the Petitioners surrender before the Court in seisin of the case in connection with Astaranga Marine P.S. Case No.12 of 2020 corresponding to G.R. Case No.639 of 2020 pending on the file of learned J.M.F.C., Nimapara within three weeks hence and move for their release on bail, they shall be released on bail on such terms and conditions as would be deemed just and proper by the said court with further condition that they will not threaten or terrorize the prosecution witnesses including the victim in any manner.

5.

The ABLAPL is accordingly disposed of.

6.

Issue urgent certified copy as per rules.

(D. Dash) Judge Himansu