Suraj Balu Mahanto v. State Of Maharashtra And ANR

23-IA-3898-2024.DOC Shivgan

IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUDICATURE AT BOMBAY

CRIMINAL APPELLATE JURISDICTION INTERIM APPLICATION NO.3898 OF 2024 IN CRIMINAL APPEAL (ST) NO.20177 OF 2024 Suraj Balu Mahanto ...Applicant

Versus

State Of Maharashtra And Anr.

...Respondents

Mr. Darsh Gala, h/for Sandeep Karnik (Legal Aid), for the Applicant.

Mr. R.M.Pethe, APP for the Respondent-State.

CORAM:

R. M. JOSHI, J.

DATED:

12th MARCH, 2026.

PC:- 1.

Heard learned counsel for both sides.

2.

This is an application for condonation of delay of 304 days caused in filing the Appeal against the order of conviction dated 12th September 2023 passed in Special Case (POCSO) No.315 of 2018.

3.

Learned counsel for the Applicant submits that the Applicant/Appellant is in jail and, which according to him, becomes sufficient ground for condonation of delay. 12th March, 2026.

23-IA-3898-2024.DOC 4.

The learned APP and learned counsel for the Respondent No.2 oppose the Application.

5.

Considering the fact that the Applicant is in jail, his liberty is curtailed. Hence, this is a fit case for condonation of delay. Delay stands condoned.

6.

The Application stands allowed and accordingly, disposed of. 7.

The Appeal be registered.

(R. M. JOSHI, J.) { Digitally signed by SHAMBHAVI NILESH SHIVGAN Date:

2026.03.16 09:33:22 +0530 SHAMBHAVI NILESH SHIVGAN 12th March, 2026.