Mumbai, Maharashtra – July 1, 2016 – The Special Court for Greater Bombay, presided over by Special Judge Shri S.V. Ranpise (CR No. 17), today granted bail to Anil Babaji Karangutkar (57), a public servant, in Bail Application No. 49 of 2016. Karangutkar was arrested in connection with ACB CR No. 41 of 2016 for alleged offenses punishable under Sections 7, 13(1)(d) read with 13(2) of The Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.

Karangutkar, a resident of Mulund (East), Mumbai, had filed the application under Section 439 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973, after being placed in judicial custody.

Arguments for Bail:

Mr. Tamboli, the learned advocate for the applicant, argued that Karangutkar has not committed any alleged offense. He highlighted that his client is a permanent resident of Mulund, Mumbai, with family responsibilities, and is a public servant with no prior criminal antecedents. Karangutkar expressed his readiness and willingness to abide by any conditions imposed by the Court.

Prosecution’s Stance:

The State, represented by learned APP Mr. Lade and Investigating Officer Mr. Mayekar, filed a say objecting to the bail. However, during the hearing, it was revealed that the custodial interrogation of the applicant was already complete.

Court’s Reasoning and Order:

Special Judge S.V. Ranpise, after hearing both sides and considering the submitted documents, noted that despite the State’s initial objection, the key factor was the completion of custodial interrogation. The court also took into account the applicant’s status as a public servant and his willingness to comply with any imposed conditions.

The Investigating Officer’s frank submission to impose conditions further supported the court’s decision. The Judge concluded that it would be proper to grant the bail application, subject to stringent conditions.

Bail Conditions:

The court allowed the application and ordered Anil Babaji Karangutkar to be enlarged on bail upon executing a Personal Recognizance (P.R.) Bond of Rs. 15,000/- (Rupees Fifteen Thousand only) and providing a solvent surety in the like amount. The bail is subject to the following conditions:

• Karangutkar must remain present before the investigating officer at the ACB office, Mumbai, every Wednesday and Friday between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. until the filing of the chargesheet, immediately after his release on bail.
• He should not pressurize witnesses or tamper with the evidence.
• He should not leave Mumbai and Thane without prior permission of the Court.

Additionally, upon a separate application, the court allowed Karangutkar to submit a provisional cash security of Rs. 15,000/- for a period of four weeks, recognizing the difficulty of obtaining immediate solvency. The Registrar (Sessions) was directed to accept the cash even after office hours.