Mumbai, January 20, 2024 – The City Civil and Sessions Court in Mumbai has granted bail to Parineeta Ravindra Kachre, a 24-year-old woman accused in a human trafficking case, under stringent conditions. The court ruled that the accused be released on bail on furnishing a personal bond of Rs. 25,000 with sureties, while imposing multiple restrictions to ensure cooperation with the investigation and prevent any tampering of evidence.
Background of the Case
Kachre was arrested on January 1, 2024, in connection with Crime No. 876/2023, registered at Tilak Nagar Police Station. She was charged under Sections 370(3) and 370-A of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, as well as Sections 3, 4, and 5 of the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956. The case came to light following a police raid on Revera Spa and Salon, where illegal activities related to prostitution were allegedly being carried out.
According to the First Information Report (FIR), law enforcement officers had received secret information about illicit activities at the establishment. In response, a dummy customer was sent to the spa, who reportedly paid Rs. 2,500 for a massage and another Rs. 2,500 to a woman allegedly involved in prostitution. During the raid, the victim was rescued, and cash transactions were traced back to the accused and her co-accused.
Arguments Presented Before the Court
Kachre’s defense counsel, Advocate S.P. Dhepe, argued that his client was falsely implicated and had no role in the alleged crime. He pointed out that Kachre had no prior criminal record, was a permanent resident of Mumbai, and had strong community ties. Further, he emphasized that since the trial was expected to be a prolonged process, keeping Kachre in custody was unnecessary. He assured the court that Kachre was willing to comply with any conditions imposed for bail.
On the other hand, Additional Public Prosecutor Meera Choudhari-Bhosale strongly opposed the bail application, highlighting the serious nature of the offense. The prosecution argued that the investigation was still at a preliminary stage, with key evidence, including medical examinations of the victim, pending. They contended that if released, Kachre might tamper with evidence, intimidate witnesses, or attempt to flee.
Court’s Observations and Ruling
After reviewing the arguments, Additional Sessions Judge Dr. Gauri Kawdikar noted that in cases under the Prevention of Immoral Traffic Act (PITA), an inquiry must be conducted under Section 17 of the Act by a Magistrate. The court took into consideration the January 18, 2024 order from the Metropolitan Magistrate, Special Court for ITPA, 54th Court, Mazgaon, Mumbai, which included the victim’s statement under Section 164 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), 1973.
In the statement, the victim denied being involved in prostitution, claiming instead that she worked as a beauty therapist earning Rs. 20,000 per month. The court found no evidence of coercion or force used against the victim. Given these findings, along with the fact that Kachre had no prior criminal history and was a permanent resident of Mumbai, the judge deemed that continued incarceration was unnecessary.
Bail Conditions
To ensure compliance with the legal process and prevent any further offenses, the court imposed several bail conditions on Kachre:
- She must report to Tilak Nagar Police Station on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month until the charge sheet is filed. Thereafter, she must appear on the 1st Saturday of each month until the trial concludes.
- She is prohibited from leaving Mumbai and Thane without prior permission from the court.
- She must provide her current address and contact information to both the Investigating Officer and the court.
- Any change in her residential address must be reported to the authorities immediately.
- She must not tamper with or attempt to influence any witnesses or prosecution evidence.
- She must fully cooperate with the trial and judicial proceedings.
- In the event of any violation of these conditions, the prosecution reserves the right to seek the cancellation of her bail.
Legal Precedent and Future Implications
This case brings attention to the legal complexities surrounding PITA cases and the need for careful judicial scrutiny when handling human trafficking allegations. The court’s decision to grant bail while maintaining strict oversight balances the rights of the accused with the necessity of a thorough investigation.
Kachre’s release on bail does not absolve her of the charges, and the case will proceed through the judicial system to determine her culpability. Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies continue their probe into the activities at Revera Spa and Salon to uncover any deeper networks involved in illegal trafficking and prostitution.
Conclusion
The bail order sets an important precedent in cases related to human trafficking and illegal sex work, reinforcing the principle that bail should not be denied unless there are substantial reasons to believe the accused may abscond or interfere with the judicial process. While Kachre is now free on bail, her legal battle is far from over, and the final verdict will be determined through due process in the coming months.