Bail granted to accused in stalking and criminal intimidation case involving major complainant and alleged prior relationship.

The applicant, Harishankar Sahu, filed a first bail application after being arrested on February 19, 2026, in connection with Crime No. 1022/2025.

The prosecution alleged that on October 15, 2025, the applicant stopped the 19-year-old complainant, verbally abused her, grabbed her hand, and threatened to kill her if she did not speak to him.

Further, on October 24, 2025, the applicant’s family allegedly engaged in abusive behavior at the complainant's house.

The applicant contended that the case was a false implication arising from a failed love affair and a dispute over borrowed money.

The State opposed the bail, citing the victim’s statement under Section 183 of the BNSS and the applicant’s prior criminal record under the NDPS Act.

Whether the applicant is entitled to regular bail under Section 483 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, considering the nature of the allegations and the period of incarceration.

Section 483 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, which governs the grant of regular bail.

Sections 74 (assault or use of criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty), 296 (obscene acts and songs/uttering obscene words), and 351(2) (criminal intimidation) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023.

Section 183 of the BNSS regarding the recording of the victim's statement.

The Court evaluated the facts and circumstances, noting that the victim is a major (19 years old) and that she and the applicant were residents of the same village with a history of a personal relationship.

The Court balanced the gravity of the allegations against the fact that the charge sheet had already been filed and the applicant had been in custody since February 19, 2026.

While acknowledging the state's concern regarding the applicant's prior criminal antecedent under Section 20(b) of the NDPS Act, the Court observed that the trial was likely to take significant time to conclude.

Consequently, the Court found it fit to grant liberty subject to stringent conditions to ensure the applicant’s presence and prevent the abuse of bail.

The bail is subject to several conditions, including a prohibition on seeking unnecessary adjournments, mandatory presence during key trial stages (framing of charges, Section 351 BNSS statements), and compliance with proclamations.

The Court further directed the trial court to endeavor to conclude the trial within six months.