Allahabad High Court Grants Bail to 32 Convicted Individuals in 35-Year-Old Caste Violence Case

The Allahabad High Court has granted bail to 32 individuals convicted in a long-standing caste violence case from Agra. The court highlighted inconsistencies in witness statements and the appellants' age and health conditions as significant factors.

The Allahabad High Court has granted bail to 32 individuals convicted in a caste violence case dating back 35 years in Agra. Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav issued the order on August 28, while considering the criminal appeal filed by Jaidev and 31 others. The trial court in Agra had sentenced them to five years in prison on May 28.

The violent incident occurred in 1990 within the Kagaraul police station area of Agra district. The appellants' counsel argued that they were falsely implicated, highlighting contradictions in the statements of about 27 prosecution witnesses, which the trial court overlooked. The counsel contended that the evidence was misinterpreted, leading to wrongful convictions.

High Court's Decision on Bail

Most of the appellants are over 65 years old and suffer from various health issues. During the trial, they were on bail and did not misuse their freedom at any point. Since May 28, 2025, they have been incarcerated. The counsel argued that an early hearing of the appeal is unlikely, making them eligible for bail until the appeal is resolved.

The court noted that appellant number 21, Devi Singh, aged 95, had already been granted short-term bail on August 4, 2025. The court decided to release all appellants on bail without commenting on the case's merits, acknowledging that the final resolution of the appeal might take time.

Background and Legal Proceedings

All accused were out on bail during their trial but were taken into custody after their conviction by the Agra trial court on May 28, 2025. The high court's decision reflects consideration for the appellants' age and health conditions while ensuring justice is served appropriately.

The counsel for Jaidev and others maintained that there was no misuse of bail during the trial phase. They emphasised that discrepancies in witness testimonies were not adequately addressed by the trial court, leading to a flawed judgment against the appellants.

The high court's order allows these individuals temporary relief as they await further proceedings. This decision underscores the importance of a fair judicial process and consideration for human rights within legal frameworks.

With inputs from PTI