High Court Rejects Bail Plea of Woman Constable in Disproportionate Assets Case

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The Madras High Court has dismissed the bail application of a woman police constable who is facing charges in a disproportionate assets (DA) case. The constable, accused of amassing wealth far beyond her known sources of income, had sought relief through a bail petition, which the court rejected after reviewing the evidence presented.

Justice G. Jayachandran, presiding over the case, ruled that granting bail at this stage would not be appropriate, given the gravity of the allegations and the need for further investigation. The judge observed that the charges raised serious concerns about corruption within the police force and emphasized the importance of allowing the legal process to proceed without interference.

The constable, who was attached to the Tamil Nadu police department, came under scrutiny following an inquiry by the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC). The agency alleged that she had acquired assets disproportionate to her known sources of income during her tenure in service. The investigation uncovered substantial bank deposits, ownership of property, and other financial irregularities that could not be accounted for through her official earnings.

The DVAC had registered a case under the Prevention of Corruption Act and opposed the bail application on grounds that releasing the accused could result in tampering with evidence or influencing witnesses. The prosecution also argued that further custodial interrogation might be necessary to trace the flow of illicit funds and identify possible accomplices.

In her bail plea, the constable denied the allegations and maintained that the properties and finances in question were either inherited or acquired through legitimate means. Her legal counsel argued that she had cooperated fully with the investigation and did not pose a flight risk.

However, the court ruled that the seriousness of the charges outweighed the arguments for bail. Justice Jayachandran noted that granting bail at this stage could set an adverse precedent, especially in corruption cases involving public servants.

The court’s decision reinforces the judiciary’s stand on maintaining transparency and accountability within law enforcement agencies. The DVAC has been directed to expedite the investigation and file a final report as per legal procedure.