HC to consider R K Sharma's bail plea after July 27

New Delhi, May 10 (UNI) Delhi High Court will consider former IG R K Sharma's bail plea in the Shivani Bhatnagar murder case after July 27 by which time the prosecution was expected to complete the trial of witnesses.

"Bail can't be granted at this stage at least given that the prosecution needs time to complete the trial of its witnesses," Mr Justice B D Ahmed said.

When senior counsel Sethi pressed for the bail on medical grounds, Justice Ahmad said that it could be considered after completion of the trial of prosecution witnesses.

The judge appeared concerned over the slow process of hearing and sought to know the developments since May 6, 2005. State counsel S K Saxena blamed the defence for taking longer time than expected, saying that they took 49 days out of 70 working days, leaving the prosecution with only 21 days to complete its work.

Justice Ahmad retorted, "the same holds true for the prosecution" and asked for a time frame to complete the trial.

On the suggestion of prosecution, the judge fixed July 27 for concluding the trial of witnesses.

Haryana IPS officer RK Sharma and Pradeep Sharma, Sri Bhagwan, Satya Prakash, Ved Prakash Sharma and Ved alias Kalu are facing trial in the murder of Indian Express journalist Shivani Bhatnagar.

UNI SSS NK KN1915