Mumbai, February 13, 2024 — In a recent ruling, the Sessions Court in Mumbai granted bail to 23-year-old Mohan Gopal Dandge, who was charged under Sections 306 (abetment of suicide) and 498-A (cruelty by husband or relatives) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) following his wife’s death. The case, filed under Criminal Bail Application No. 93 of 2024, was heard by Additional Sessions Judge Dr. Gauri Kawdikar, who considered the evidence and ongoing family disputes in the decision to release Dandge on bail.
Background of the Case
The tragic events unfolded on January 1, 2024, when Dandge allegedly informed his mother-in-law that her daughter, his wife, had ingested poison. After confirming the incident, family members rushed the wife to the hospital, but she succumbed the following day. The deceased’s family subsequently filed an FIR on January 3, 2024, leading to Dandge’s arrest by the Pantnagar Police.
Arguments and Court Proceedings
Representing Dandge, Advocate Rohit R. Gangurde argued that the charges were based on a “false and concocted” FIR and that the deceased’s family had objected to their marriage from the outset. Dandge and his wife had initially eloped and married in 2022, against the wishes of her family, who reportedly pressured her to leave Dandge, casting doubts over the relationship. Gangurde emphasized that Dandge had no prior criminal history and that various non-cognizable complaints were filed on both sides, highlighting an ongoing conflict.
On behalf of the prosecution, Additional Public Prosecutors Meera Choudhari-Bhosale and Rajlaxmi Bhandari contended that Dandge had subjected his wife to physical abuse, contributing to her distress. They argued that his release could result in the intimidation of witnesses, tampering with evidence, and hindrance of the investigation.
Court’s Observations
Judge Kawdikar reviewed the facts, noting that while the death was tragic, the evidence did not show a direct instigation or abetment by Dandge. Additionally, no poison container was recovered from the scene, leading the court to question the certainty of the alleged cause of death. The judge acknowledged the fraught relationship between Dandge and the deceased’s family and their ongoing legal conflicts, observing that prolonged detention in such circumstances would not serve the interests of justice.
Another factor in the judge’s decision was the young age of the couple’s one-year-old son, who, following his mother’s death, would need care and attention from his remaining parent, Dandge.
Bail Conditions
The court granted bail with strict conditions to ensure the integrity of the investigation:
- Bond and Surety: Dandge was required to post a bond of INR 50,000 with one or more sureties.
- No Tampering with Witnesses: Dandge was prohibited from contacting or attempting to influence any witnesses.
- Regular Police Attendance: He was instructed to report to the Pantnagar Police Station as needed for ongoing investigations.
- Restrictions on Travel: He must not leave India without court permission and was required to submit his contact details and residential address.
- Prohibition on Offenses: Dandge was warned against engaging in any illegal activities that could result in bail revocation.
Judge Kawdikar’s decision to grant bail also took into account Dandge’s compliance with specific restrictions to prevent any potential interference with the investigation. Should Dandge fail to meet these requirements, his bail could be canceled.
Legal and Social Implications
This case underscores the complexities faced by the courts in handling allegations of domestic issues that involve broader family conflicts. It reflects a judicial emphasis on safeguarding the rights of individuals without criminal records, especially when children are involved. Additionally, the court’s balanced approach exemplifies the importance of imposing structured bail conditions in sensitive cases.
The release of Dandge on bail will allow him to fulfill his parental duties while upholding the conditions imposed by the court. The legal proceedings will continue, with the case set for further investigation and a trial to ascertain the circumstances surrounding his wife’s tragic death.
