Mumbai, February 2, 2022 – Balkrishna Subramani Devendra has been granted bail by the Sessions Court for Greater Bombay in a robbery case. Additional Sessions Judge B.V. Wagh (Court Room No. 24) issued the order on February 2, 2022.

Devendra was arrested in connection with C.R. No. 652/2021, registered at the Antop Hill Police Station, for offenses under Section 394 (voluntarily causing hurt in committing robbery) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

Background and Allegations:

The complainant reported that on November 10, 2021, at around 8:30 p.m., he and his friend were followed by a man who then assaulted them. The man allegedly used a bamboo stick to threaten them and steal their mobile phones before fleeing. Devendra was arrested on December 12, 2021.

Arguments Presented:

Advocate Rukshar Qureshi represented Devendra.

Additional Public Prosecutor (APP) Ratnavali Patil represented the State.

Court’s Reasoning and Decision:

Judge Wagh reviewed the investigation papers and found that there was prima facie evidence suggesting Devendra had robbed the complainant and his friend at a secluded location during odd hours, using a bamboo stick. Two mobile phones were recovered from Devendra, and an identification parade had confirmed his involvement.

However, the court also noted that Devendra had been in custody since December 12, 2021, and that no criminal antecedents were presented against him. The court observed that the investigation had progressed considerably, and further detention of Devendra was deemed unnecessary.

Bail Conditions:

Devendra was granted bail upon furnishing a personal bond of Rs. 15,000 along with a surety of the same amount. The following conditions were imposed:

• Devendra must provide his residential address proof and contact numbers to the Investigating Officer.
• He must not directly or indirectly influence, threaten, or promise any person acquainted with the case.
• He must not leave India without prior permission from the court.
• Bail to be furnished before the Lower Court.

Order Details:

The order was dictated, transcribed, and signed on February 2, 2022, and uploaded on the same day at 3:50 p.m.

This decision reflects the court’s consideration of the prima facie evidence, the progress of the investigation, Devendra’s lack of criminal antecedents, and the imposition of conditions to ensure his compliance with the legal process.