Early Times Report
Jammu, Sept 17: The Principal Sessions Judge Jammu, Y.P. Bourney, has dismissed the bail application of 19-year-old engineering student Mannan Anand, accused in the sensational Thar road rage case, observing that the seriousness of allegations and ongoing investigation do not warrant his release.
The case relates to FIR No. 163/2025, registered at Gandhi Nagar Police Station. According to the prosecution, on July 27, 2025, Anand was allegedly driving a Mahindra Thar rashly when it collided with a Scooty near Green Belt Park. He then allegedly reversed the vehicle at high speed, hitting the victim—an elderly man—with the intention to run him over. After abusing the victim, the accused reportedly fled the spot. The severely injured victim was first shifted to GMC Jammu and later referred to Fortis Hospital Chandigarh for advanced treatment owing to his critical condition.
Counsel appearing for the argued that Anand, a young engineering student, had already been in custody since July 30 and that his prolonged detention amounted to “pre-trial punishment.” The defense also accused the police of adding Section 109 BNS later to nullify.
Public Prosecutor Anil Mangotra strongly opposed bail, maintaining that the accused’s conduct—rash driving, reversing the vehicle to hit the victim, and fleeing after hurling abuses—showed clear intent and seriousness. He argued that releasing the accused at this stage would jeopardize the investigation.
Dismissing the bail plea, the Principal Sessions Judge noted that despite more than six weeks since registration of the case, the probe was still at an early stage and required professional handling. The court emphasized that considering the gravity of allegations, the manner of commission, and the stage of investigation, the accused did not deserve bail at present. The Judge further observed that “no amount of change in laws would suffice unless there is a perceptible change in the mindset of those entrusted with implementation,” urging police to conclude the probe with urgency. (JNF) |
