2024 (11) TMI 1456 - HC - GST

Seeking grant of bail (second bail application) - applicant is in jail since 4.11.2023 - trial of the case has not been concluded so far - statement u/s 244 CrPC has not been recorded as yet - HELD THAT - The case in hand relates to economic offence which forms a separate category of criminal offences. Economic Offences not only victimize individuals with pecuniary loss but also have serious repercussions on the national economy. Hence there are no ground to enlarge the present accused-applicant on bail. The second bail application of the accused-applicant is hereby rejected.

Summary

The Allahabad High Court, through Hon'ble Justice Nalin Kumar Srivastava, rejected the second bail application of accused Roshan Chaudhary in Case Crime No.2821/2023 under Sections 132(1)(b), 132(1)(i) of the C.G.S.T. Act. The Court noted that the first bail application was already dismissed on merits (order dated 15.3.2024). The applicant's new grounds-prolonged custody since 4.11.2023, pending trial, and non-recording of statement under Section 244 CrPC-were insufficient to warrant bail. Emphasizing that economic offences "form a separate category" with serious national repercussions, the Court found "no ground to enlarge the present accused-applicant on bail." The trial court was directed to ensure "expeditious disposal of the trial... preferably within nine months," with all stakeholders responsible for avoiding unnecessary adjournments.