Amandeep vs. State & Anr.
Background
The accused sought regular bail in a case where a 19-year-old woman, who had met him on Instagram, alleged that he raped her on more than one occasion at hotels, filmed her in compromising positions, and threatened to circulate the images if she disclosed the incidents. The prosecution's own forensic analysis of the accused's mobile phone found no such objectionable images or videos, and the complainant had refused to hand over her own phone for forensic examination.
Decision Breakdown
The Court observed that, on the facts placed before it, the relationship appeared consensual, though it clarified that the trial court must independently assess this on the full evidence. Given that the forensic report found no incriminating material on the accused's phone and there was no explanation for the complainant's refusal to submit her own phone for examination, the Court found no reason to keep the accused in custody further and granted regular bail on a personal bond with one surety.
Lesson Learnt
Bail decisions are shaped by the concrete evidence gathered so far, such as forensic results, even though the ultimate question of guilt is reserved for full trial.