MUMBAI, INDIA – April 19, 2022 – The Sessions Court in Greater Mumbai has granted bail to Morasalin Velswamy Morus, accused of assaulting a police officer. The court, presided over by Additional Sessions Judge Purushottam B. Jadhav, granted bail in connection with C.R. No. 223/2022 registered at Dharavi Police Station.

Morus was arrested and charged under sections 353 (assault or criminal force to deter public servant from discharge of his duty),¹ 326 (voluntarily causing grievous hurt by dangerous weapons or means), 333 (voluntarily causing grievous hurt to deter public servant from his duty),² and 504 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of the peace) of the Indian Penal Code³ (IPC).

According to the prosecution, Morus, who was allegedly intoxicated, was taken home by a police constable and the first informant after being found at the police station in a drunken state. Subsequently, he allegedly assaulted the first informant with a stone, causing grievous injury.

The defense, led by Advocate Sangeeta Suchdev, argued for Morus’s release on bail. The prosecution, represented by Ld. A.P.P. J.N. Suryawanshi, opposed the application, citing concerns about witness tampering, absconding, and potential address changes.

Judge Jadhav, after hearing both sides and reviewing the record, acknowledged the prosecution’s concerns but noted that suitable conditions could be imposed to mitigate those risks. The court also considered that Morus had been in custody since March 25, 2022, his custodial interrogation was complete, he had no prior criminal record, and he was a resident of Mumbai.

Ultimately, the court granted Morus bail, subject to the following conditions:

• Bail Bond: Morus was required to execute a personal bond of Rs. 15,000/- with one surety of the same amount.
• No Tampering: He is prohibited from tampering with witnesses and evidence.
• Address and Contact Information: He must provide his detailed address, mobile/contact number, address proof, and identity proof at the time of furnishing bail.
• Address/Contact Change Notification: He must inform the court and the investigating officer of any change in his residence or mobile/contact number.
• Court Attendance: He must attend all court hearings regularly.
• Cooperation: He must cooperate with the investigating officer.
• Bail Location: Bail must be furnished before the concerned Metropolitan Magistrate or, if the case is committed to the Sessions Court, before that court.

This decision reflects the court’s balancing act between the severity of the alleged offense and the accused’s right to liberty. The stringent conditions imposed aim to ensure Morus’s cooperation with the legal process and prevent any potential obstruction of justice. The case will be monitored as it progresses through the judicial system.