SARWAR Versus STATE

ORDER

Petitioner Sarwar alias Kali seeks his post arrest bail in a case registered against him and others under section 302/109/34, P.P.C. at Police Station Noor Shah District Sahiwal vide F.I.R. No.364 of 1994 dated 16‑8‑1994.

2. Learned counsel contends that petitioner was arrested by the police on 26‑8‑1994 and since then he is in jail and only evidence of one P.W., has been recorded so far. Other accused have also been summoned by the trial Court.

3. Bail application has been opposed by the learned State counsel on the ground that trial is in progress.

4. Bail application of the petitioner has been dismissed by the learned trial Court on the ground that in case of releasing the petitioner on bail, he is likely to tamper with the prosecution evidence which is yet to be recorded. The reason given by the learned Additional Sessions Judge is imaginary in nature. There is no allegation whatsoever against the petitioner that he made any attempt to tamper with the prosecution evidence by issuing threats to any P.W. The petitioner was taken into custody on 26‑8‑1994 and despite expiry of 2 years 5 months and 22 days trial has not been concluded. Only evidence of one witness has been recorded so far and conclusion of trial is likely to take considerable long time. The petitioner has earned his right to be released on bail on statutory ground under third proviso to section 497 (1), Cr.P.C. There is no allegation that delay in the conclusion of trial has occurred on account of any fault on the part of the petitioner‑accused.

5. In view of the dictum laid down in Zahid Hussain Shah v. The State (PLD 1995 SC 49) .the petitioner is admitted to bail on furnishing bail bonds in the sum of Rs.1,00,000 (rupees one lac) with one surety in the like amount to the satisfaction of trial Court. The petition is accordingly allowed.

H.B.T./S‑128/L Bail granted.