Anticipatory bail is a legal provision that allows an individual to seek bail before arrest, protecting them from unnecessary detention.
What is Anticipatory Bail?
Anticipatory bail is a direction given by a court to release an individual on bail, even before arrest, if the court is satisfied that:
- The person may be arrested
- The arrest is unnecessary
- The person will not abscond or tamper with evidence
Types of Anticipatory Bail:
- Session Court Anticipatory Bail
- High Court Anticipatory Bail
- Supreme Court Anticipatory Bail
Eligibility Criteria:
- Reasonable apprehension of arrest
- No previous convictions or pending cases
- Cooperation with investigation
- No potential threat to witnesses or evidence
Procedure for Anticipatory Bail:
- File petition: Applicant files petition before competent court.
- Notice to prosecution: Court issues notice to prosecution.
- Hearing: Court hears arguments from both parties.
- Order: Court grants or rejects anticipatory bail.
Anticipatory Bail Conditions:
- Regular appearance before court
- No leave country without permission
- No interference with investigation
- No contact with witnesses
Duration of Anticipatory Bail:
- Limited period (e.g., 6 months)
- Until conclusion of trial
- Until further orders
Cancellation of Anticipatory Bail:
- Violation of conditions
- Non-cooperation with investigation
- Change in circumstances
Landmark Judgments:
- Gurbaksh Singh Sibbia v. State of Punjab (1980)
- Siddharam Satlingappa Mhetre v. State of Maharashtra (2011)
Advantages:
- Protection from unnecessary arrest
- Prevention of harassment
- Preservation of liberty