Mumbai, 20th January 2024 — The Additional Sessions Judge, Dr. Gauri Kawdikar, has granted bail to Parineeta Ravindra Kachre, aged 24, in a case related to human trafficking. The accused, arrested on 1st January 2024, was charged in connection with C.R. No. 876 of 2023, registered at Tilak Nagar Police Station under Sections 370(3) and 370-A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), and Sections 3, 4, and 5 of the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act (ITPA), 1956.
The case involves serious allegations of prostitution and trafficking that were uncovered during a police raid at a spa and saloon in Mumbai, allegedly operating as a front for prostitution. Kachre’s involvement was reportedly as part of a network that facilitated illegal activities, including providing services to a dummy customer as part of an undercover police operation. However, following a detailed inquiry, Kachre’s legal team asserted that there was no evidence to directly link her to the trafficking activities.
Bail Application and Court Proceedings
Kachre’s lawyer, Mr. S.P. Dhepe, argued that his client had no prior criminal record and that she had strong social ties in Mumbai, making her unlikely to flee from justice. He emphasized that the trial process could take a significant amount of time, and Kachre had shown willingness to abide by any conditions set by the court. He further assured the court that Kachre would fully cooperate with the investigation and the trial proceedings.
In contrast, Additional Public Prosecutor (APP) Mrs. Meera Choudhari-Bhosale strongly opposed the bail application, citing the serious nature of the charges. She pointed out that the investigation was still in its early stages, and the medical examination of the victim had yet to be conducted. The prosecutor also raised concerns about the possibility of Kachre tampering with evidence or influencing witnesses, as well as the risk of her absconding and the potential for reoffending.
Court’s Evaluation and Considerations
The court took into account several factors before making its decision. According to the First Information Report (FIR), police had received a tip-off about illegal activities at a spa and saloon named Revera. On 28th December 2023, an undercover operation involving a dummy customer was conducted, during which a transaction of Rs. 2,500 was made for a massage service. Rs. 500 was given to the masseuse, and Rs. 2,500 was paid for sexual services allegedly facilitated by Kachre. Notes from the demonetization era were recovered from Kachre, co-accused individuals, and the victim.
However, a significant development occurred when the victim, during an inquiry conducted by the Magistrate under Section 17 of the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956, denied being involved in sex work. She stated that she was working as a beautician earning Rs. 20,000 per month and had not been coerced into prostitution. Additionally, there was no evidence of force or coercion regarding her alleged involvement in sex work.
The court noted that the victim, who is a major, had not confirmed any involvement in sex work and had no objections to the accused being granted bail. This revelation was pivotal in the court’s decision-making process.
Bail Granted with Conditions
After reviewing the case, the judge ruled that continued incarceration of Kachre was unnecessary, as there was no substantial evidence of her direct involvement in trafficking or coercion. The court acknowledged the lack of a criminal history, her permanent residency in Mumbai, and the fact that there was no immediate risk of her fleeing.
To ensure that Kachre cooperates with the ongoing investigation and does not repeat the alleged offense, the court granted bail subject to several conditions:
- Attendance at Police Station: Kachre must attend the Tilak Nagar Police Station on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. until the charge-sheet is filed, and thereafter, on the 1st Saturday of every month until the trial is concluded.
- Restriction on Travel: Kachre is prohibited from leaving the jurisdiction of Mumbai and Thane without the court’s permission.
- Communication and Address Updates: She must provide her current address and contact details to both the Investigating Officer and the court. Any change in her address must be communicated promptly.
- No Contact with Victim: Kachre is not allowed to make direct or indirect contact with the victim in the case.
- Non-Tampering with Evidence: She is prohibited from attempting to influence witnesses or tamper with evidence related to the case.
- Cooperation in the Trial: Kachre is required to fully cooperate with the proceedings of the trial.
The bail was set at a bond of Rs. 25,000, with one or more sureties in a like amount. The prosecution was also granted the liberty to seek cancellation of the bail in case any of the conditions were violated.
Implications and Next Steps
This ruling has significant implications for the case and the accused. Kachre’s release on bail is contingent upon her adherence to the stringent conditions set by the court. While the court has given her the benefit of the doubt based on the lack of strong evidence against her, the case is still ongoing, and the final outcome will depend on the progression of the investigation and the trial.
The state’s investigation into the broader network of trafficking activities continues, and authorities are expected to gather further evidence to substantiate the charges against the accused and other individuals involved in the case.
Kachre’s bail marks a critical juncture in the case, but the final resolution will depend on the legal proceedings, including the presentation of evidence and testimonies in court.
Conclusion
As the investigation into the alleged human trafficking case continues, Parineeta Ravindra Kachre’s release on bail reflects the complexities of balancing the rights of the accused with the need to ensure justice for victims. With several conditions placed on her release, Kachre must comply with the court’s directives or face potential re-arrest. The case is likely to continue to garner attention as more details emerge and the trial proceeds.
