Mumbai, January 19, 2024: The Sessions Court for Greater Mumbai has rejected the bail application of 21-year-old Mohammed Kaif Abdullah Qureshi, accused in a violent assault case registered under C.R. No. 761 of 2023 with Bhandup Police Station. The accused, who was arrested on December 24, 2023, faced charges under Sections 326, 324, 323, 504, and 506(2) of the Indian Penal Code for allegedly participating in a brutal attack using iron rods and bamboo sticks.
The Case Details
According to the prosecution, the incident occurred on December 19, 2023, around 8:30 p.m., when the victim, Amit Suresh Yadav, objected to a juvenile—allegedly a relative of the accused—sitting on his scooter. This led to an altercation, during which the juvenile called Qureshi and other co-accused, including Shakib Ahmed alias Lulla and Zuhar Aslam Shaikh alias Juvel, to the scene. Armed with deadly weapons, the accused group allegedly attacked Yadav and his companion, Kishan Nishad, inflicting serious injuries that required hospitalization at Sion Hospital.
Court’s Observations and Bail Denial
Judge S.M. Tapkire, presiding over the case, carefully examined the prosecution’s objections and the defense’s plea. The prosecution argued that the accused had a criminal history and posed a threat to witnesses, citing fears that his release could intimidate key individuals in the case. They also highlighted the serious nature of the injuries sustained by the victims and the ongoing investigation, which remained at a crucial stage.
The defense, led by Advocate Rehman Khan, contended that Qureshi was falsely implicated due to his familial ties to one of the accused. They argued that the primary allegations were against other co-accused and that there was no direct evidence linking Qureshi to the attack. However, the court noted that the accused was present at the crime scene and actively participated in the assault, specifically striking one of the victims with a bamboo stick.
Judge Tapkire emphasized that the allegations were grave and supported by medical evidence confirming significant injuries to the victims. Furthermore, the court took into account that Qureshi had previously been denied bail by the trial court on December 29, 2023, due to his alleged criminal antecedents.
Key Ruling Points
- The court observed that the accused had a history of criminal activity and was known to instill fear in the local community.
- Investigations were still ongoing, and granting bail at this stage could potentially hinder the process.
- The nature of the attack, involving deadly weapons, and the severity of the victims’ injuries warranted continued detention.
- Witnesses were reportedly afraid to come forward due to the accused’s alleged influence.
Legal Implications
With the bail application rejected, Qureshi will remain in judicial custody as investigations continue. The decision underscores the judiciary’s stance on violent crimes and the importance of safeguarding witnesses in sensitive cases.
The case is expected to proceed to trial in the coming months, with further scrutiny on the role of all accused parties. Legal experts note that unless substantial new evidence emerges in favor of Qureshi, securing bail in the future may prove difficult.
Conclusion
The court’s decision reinforces the seriousness of crimes involving bodily harm and criminal intimidation. With law enforcement continuing to probe deeper into the case, the judicial system has prioritized due process and public safety, ensuring that the accused remains in custody until further proceedings.
(For further updates on this case, stay tuned to our legal coverage.)
