Bombay High Court Grants Bail to 70-Year-Old Accused of Human Sacrifice, Says Trial May Take Time to Finish.

The Bombay High Court has granted bail to a 70-year-old man from Satara, who is accused of murdering a young girl in a human sacrifice ritual aimed at achieving wealth and prosperity. This incident allegedly took place in 2019, when he and others planned the sacrifice. While he was on lookout, another accused is said to have cut the girl’s throat. The charges against him include murder, destruction of evidence, criminal conspiracy, and common intention under the Indian Penal Code, as well as violations of the Maharashtra Prevention and Eradication of Human Sacrifice Act, 2013.

Justice SG Dige, while recognizing the gravity of the charges, stated, “The applicant is over 70 years old and has been in jail for more than two years. Although charges have been filed, the trial has not yet started and may take time to finish.” The Court emphasized that the bail decision was influenced by these circumstances but reminded that the trial court must make its own judgment without being swayed by this bail ruling. Advocate Shreyas Barsawade represented the applicant, while Advocate Sangeeta D. Shinde represented the respondent. Bail was granted with strict conditions, requiring him to sign a personal bond of ₹50,000 with one or two sureties of the same amount, and to report to the nearest police station monthly until the trial concludes. He must also notify the police of any changes to his address or contact details.

The Court placed limits on his movement, allowing him to enter Satara District only for court appearances. He was not allowed to interfere with evidence or reach out to witnesses in the case. Despite these conditions, he received bail, but the Court emphasized that the trial would continue regardless of the bail order’s comments.

Cause Title: Phoolsingh Shevu Rathod & Anr. v. State of Maharashtra