Mumbai, Maharashtra – March 16, 2024 – Abdul Majid Abbasali Siddiqui, accused in a rape case registered at Sewree Police Station, has been granted bail by the Sessions Court for Greater Bombay. Additional Sessions Judge Smt. N.S. Shaikh (C.R. No. 39) granted the bail in Criminal Bail Application No. 616 of 2024, subject to stringent conditions.
Siddiqui was arrested in connection with Crime No. 48 of 2024, registered under Sections 376 (rape), 376(2)(N) (repeated rape), 506 (criminal intimidation) read with Section 34 (acts done by several persons in furtherance of common intention) of the Indian Penal Code.1
Case Background:
The complainant alleged that she was married 14 years ago and had been residing in Mumbai with her husband for two years. She claimed her husband harassed her. Siddiqui, her neighbor, allegedly established a physical relationship with her under the pretense of arranging her marriage to his son, Rajjab. The complainant also alleged that Rajjab had a love relationship with her and also had physical relations with her under the promise of marriage. When she informed her husband about these relationships, he left her. Subsequently, both Rajjab and Siddiqui allegedly abandoned her.
Arguments and Court’s Reasoning:
Siddiqui claimed he was falsely implicated and that he had been working as a taxi driver for 20 years. He was arrested on February 7, 2024, and had been in judicial custody since February 12, 2024. He asserted that he had no criminal antecedents and was willing to abide by any bail conditions.
The prosecution opposed the bail, arguing that Siddiqui could tamper with evidence or threaten witnesses. They also raised concerns about him absconding, as he resided in rented premises.
The complainant also filed a statement opposing the bail, expressing fear of harassment and threats if Siddiqui were released.
The court, after hearing arguments from both sides and reviewing the FIR, noted that the investigation was complete, and the chargesheet was expected to be filed soon. Considering Siddiqui’s period of judicial custody and the time it might take to file the chargesheet, the court found it unnecessary to keep him detained.
“Considering the said circumstances and the fact that accused is in judicial custody since 12.03.2024 and filing of Charge-sheet will take time. No purpose would be served by keeping the accused behind bars,” Judge Shaikh stated.
Bail Conditions:
Judge Shaikh granted bail to Abdul Majid Abbasali Siddiqui on the following conditions:
- Execution of a personal bond of ₹15,000 with one or more solvent sureties of the same amount.
- Submission of proof of residence, Aadhaar Card, and Election Card (if any).
- An undertaking not to involve in any crime.
- An undertaking not to tamper with prosecution evidence.
- An undertaking not to directly or indirectly induce, threaten, or promise any person acquainted with the case.
- Requirement to attend all trial hearings.
- Breach of any condition will result in immediate cancellation of bail.
The certified copy of the judgment was issued on March 16, 2024. This decision highlights the court’s consideration of the progress of the investigation and the individual’s right to bail, while also ensuring the safety of the complainant and the integrity of the judicial process through strict conditions.