Mumbai Court Grants Bail to Israr Ahmed Shaikh in Counterfeit Currency Exchange Case

Israr Ahmed Shaikh, accused of possessing and attempting to use counterfeit currency, has been granted bail by the Mumbai Sessions Court.

On January 5, 2024, Judge R.R. Patare allowed bail for Israr Ahmed Shaikh, who was implicated in a case where counterfeit Rs. 2,000 notes were tendered at an HDFC bank branch in Tardeo, Mumbai. Shaikh’s defense argued his innocence, claiming he had no knowledge of the notes’ authenticity, supported by the fact that he presented his Aadhar card during the transaction, suggesting no intent to defraud.
The prosecution, however, maintained that the possession and use of counterfeit currency were clear offenses under sections 489(b) and 489(c) of the IPC. Despite these arguments, the court found that:

– The investigation was nearly complete.
– Shaikh had no criminal antecedents.
– There was no need for further custodial interrogation.

Bail Conditions:
– Personal bond and sureties of Rs. 15,000 each.
– To report to the police station twice weekly for a month.
– Not to contact the informant or tamper with evidence.

The bail reflects the court’s consideration of the specifics of each case, especially when the accused’s role appears less central to the crime.