The Supreme Court has set aside the Delhi High Court’s order granting bail to Olympian wrestler Sushil Kumar in a 2021 murder case. The court stressed that bail is a matter of judicial discretion, balancing personal liberty with the seriousness of the offence and the need for a fair trial.
The case involves the alleged abduction and assault of several individuals at Chhatrasal Stadium, resulting in the death of Sagar, the complainant’s son. Police recovered weapons, including a loaded firearm, and a video allegedly showing the accused attacking the victims.
Justice Sanjay Karol noted that Sushil Kumar had evaded arrest, with police issuing non-bailable warrants and a cash reward for information. The court also highlighted allegations of witness intimidation, pointing out that 28 of 35 examined witnesses had turned hostile, often after the accused was granted temporary bail.
"The High Court erred by not considering the grievous nature of the crime, the possibility of influencing the trial, and the accused’s conduct during investigation," the bench observed.
The Supreme Court ordered Kumar to surrender within a week, allowing him to reapply for bail if circumstances change.
Case Title: Ashok Dhankad vs. State of NCT of Delhi & Anr.
Jurisdiction: Criminal Appellate Jurisdiction
Case Number: Criminal Appeal No. 3495 of 2025 (@ Special Leave Petition (Crl.) No. 5370 of 2025)
Date of Judgment: 13 August 2025