2020 (9) TMI 1256 - HC - GST

Seeking grant of Regular Bail - principle of parity - HELD THAT - On the principle of parity the petitioner deserves to be granted regular bail. It is deemed appropriate to grant regular bail to the petitioner - the petitioner is directed to be released on regular bail on his furnishing bail and surety bonds to the satisfaction of the trial Court/Duty Magistrate concerned - petition allowed.

Summary

Issues: Grant of regular bail in a criminal case based on the principle of parity.

Analysis:
The judgment delivered by Sudhir Mittal J. of the Punjab & Haryana High Court pertains to a plea for regular bail in a criminal case filed by the petitioner. The petitioner sought bail in a case registered under Sections 420, 467, 468, 471 IPC at Police Station Chandani Bagh, District Panipat. The petitioner's counsel argued for bail based on the principle of parity, citing a previous order granting bail to a co-accused Nitish Singhal in a similar case. The State counsel acknowledged the similarity in roles attributed to the petitioner and the co-accused in the previous case.

The court considered the principle of parity and found the roles of the petitioner and the co-accused to be identical. In light of this, the court deemed it appropriate to grant regular bail to the petitioner. Consequently, the court allowed the petition and directed the petitioner to be released on regular bail upon furnishing bail and surety bonds to the satisfaction of the trial Court/Duty Magistrate concerned.

In conclusion, the judgment underscores the application of the principle of parity in granting regular bail in criminal cases where co-accused in similar circumstances have been granted bail. The decision highlights the importance of consistency and fairness in the judicial process, ensuring that individuals facing similar charges are treated equitably.