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Issues:
- Grant of anticipatory bail under Sections 304B, 406, and 498A of IPC - Allegations of dowry harassment leading to suicide - Discrepancies in documents presented by both prosecution and defense - Consideration of bail conditions and restrictions during investigation Grant of Anticipatory Bail: The appellants were charged under Sections 304B, 406, and 498A of the IPC, and their applications for anticipatory bail were rejected by lower courts. The deceased, who was the daughter of the complainant, was married to one of the appellants and later committed suicide. The prosecution alleged that the deceased was harassed for dowry, leading to her depression and suicide. On the other hand, the defense claimed that the deceased was a schizophrenic patient and her illness was the cause of her death. The Supreme Court, without expressing any opinion on the merits of the case, granted anticipatory bail to the appellants on the condition of furnishing a bail bond and surety, abiding by statutory conditions, and cooperating with the investigating agency when required. Allegations of Dowry Harassment: The prosecution accused the appellants of demanding dowry, which allegedly caused the deceased's depression and suicide. Documents presented by both sides aimed to establish their respective narratives. The Court noted discrepancies in the documents and emphasized that the genuineness of the evidence could only be determined in a full-fledged trial. The Court refrained from commenting on the authenticity of the documents at that stage and highlighted the need for a trial to ascertain the truth behind the allegations of dowry harassment. Discrepancies in Presented Documents: Both the prosecution and defense submitted numerous documents to support their claims regarding the dowry harassment allegations. The Court observed that there was an evident attempt by both sides to create evidence either in favor of or against the appellants. However, the Court stressed that the authenticity and correctness of these documents could only be determined during the trial proceedings. Therefore, the Court refrained from relying on any specific document at that stage and emphasized that the matter required thorough examination during the trial. Consideration of Bail Conditions and Investigation Restrictions: In granting anticipatory bail, the Court imposed specific conditions on the appellants, including furnishing a bail bond, cooperating with the investigating agency, and ensuring the presence of their counsel during interrogation. The Court also highlighted a disturbing factor related to media interference in the case, cautioning against trial by media and expressing displeasure at articles that could influence the administration of justice. The Court emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of the legal process and closed the matter while urging the media to act responsibly in such sensitive cases.
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