The Supreme Court on Wednesday overturned the Rajasthan High Court’s decision to grant bail to three accused in the murder of former village sarpanch Dinesh Kumar Yadav in Neemrana, Rajasthan, on May 31, 2023.
The apex court, led by a bench comprising Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar, directed the accused Abhimanyu alias Pintu, Jaiveer, and Satya alias Chinnya to surrender and ordered the trial court to expedite proceedings.
The bench ruled that the accused could reapply for bail if there were significant changes in circumstances or if trial delays occurred for reasons beyond their control.
Advocate Ronak Karanpuria, representing the victim’s brother Roopesh Kumar, argued that the high court had erred by granting bail without considering the seriousness of the crime, the evidence of premeditated conspiracy, and the risks posed to witnesses.
The case involves the brutal killing of Dinesh Kumar Yadav, former sarpanch of Gram Panchayat Silapur. On the morning of May 31, 2023, Dinesh was shot multiple times while ploughing a field near a well.
According to Roopesh, who witnessed the attack, the murder was fueled by political rivalry and disputes over illegal encroachments. He identified the shooters and named the three accused as conspirators in the FIR.
Investigations revealed a carefully planned conspiracy. The accused allegedly collaborated with hired shooters, Sachin and Yashpal, paying them ₹23,000 and arranging a stolen motorcycle for their escape. Despite being rushed to Kailash Hospital in Behror, Dinesh succumbed to his injuries.
The apex court’s decision highlights the importance of addressing the gravity of such offences while ensuring witness protection and a fair trial.
