The Karnataka High Court recently granted bail to a man who was among those booked for beating to death a ragpicker, who allegedly shouted 'Pakistan Zindabad' slogan at a local cricket match..Justice Shivashankar Amarannavar granted the accused man, Natesh Kumar, bail after noting that he had been in jail since April 29, 2025, and that others who were accused of more serious acts in connection with the same incident have already been granted bail. .It was also noted that a chargesheet has already been filed in the case, meaning that there was no need for the custodial interrogation of the accused. It was further observed that Kumar did not have any criminal antecedents. Considering these factors, the Court allowed Kumar's release on bail, provided he executes a personal bond worth ₹1 lakh with one surety. The accused was also told not to tamper with the witnesses in the case and to regularly attend trial hearings. .The case concerns an incident that took place in May last year when a ragpicker, Mohammed Ashraf, allegedly entered a ground where a cricket match was going on and uttered "Pakistan Zindabad" slogan.He was chased and beaten up, leading to his death. Several persons were arrested in connection with the case and accused of committing the offences of murder, unlawful assembly, riot, hurt, giving false information, and provoking a breach of peace.33-year-old Natesh Kumar was among those who were alleged to have been part of the mob that attacked the deceased man. The State claimed that Kumar got chilly powder from his house and threw it on the eyes and body of the deceased, that he instigated others to attack the deceased and attacked the deceased himself as well.Kumar's counsel countered that the allegations would at best lead to a charge for culpable homicide and not murder. He further urged the Court to grant Kumar bail, considering how long he has remained in jail and since there was no need for further custodial interrogation.The Court also noted that two others accused of attacking the deceased with clubs were granted bail by a sessions court.It proceeded to grant Kumar bail on various conditions. .Senior Advocate Aruna Shyam M and advocate Nishanth SK appeared for Kumar..Additional Special Public Prosecutor Mohd Ayub Ali represented the State. .[Read Order].Follow Bar and Bench channel on WhatsAppDownload the Bar and Bench Mobile app for instant access to the latest legal news.
