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