Two women from Bangladesh, Kajal Junab Shaikh and Rani Begum Yarul Shaikh, were granted bail by the Mumbai Sessions Court despite allegations of illegal residence in India.

On February 3, 2024, Judge S.N. Patil of the Greater Bombay Sessions Court granted bail to Kajal Junab Shaikh and Rani Begum Yarul Shaikh, who were arrested for allegedly staying in Mumbai without proper documentation. The case was based on secret information leading to their arrest, where they were found in possession of mobile phones used to communicate with relatives in Bangladesh.

The defense argued that the women were Indian citizens by providing their addresses in Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, and that they had health issues, making detention particularly harsh. The prosecution opposed this, citing the risk of tampering with evidence and flight from justice.
The court, however, considered:
– The completion of the investigation.
– The health conditions of the accused.
– The fact that they were women, which influenced the decision towards leniency.

Bail Conditions:
– A personal bond of Rs. 25,000 each with sureties.
– To attend the police station on specified dates.
– Not to tamper with evidence or leave India without permission.

The decision underscores judicial considerations for humanitarian aspects in legal proceedings, particularly concerning foreign nationals.