In a brief but notable order, the Allahabad High Court’s Lucknow Bench allowed a short-term bail plea filed by a convict seeking release to attend his daughter’s wedding. The court emphasized the social and personal significance of such family responsibilities while granting limited relief.
Background of the Case
The case arises from Criminal Appeal No. 3548 of 2023, filed by Desh Raj, who was convicted under Section 304 of the Indian Penal Code by a Lucknow trial court. He had been sentenced to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment along with a fine of ₹30,000.
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According to the record, the conviction was delivered on October 19, 2023, in a sessions trial linked to a 2005 criminal case registered at Malihabad police station in Lucknow district. Since then, the appellant has been in custody while his appeal remains pending.
The present application was moved seeking short-term bail on the ground that his daughter’s marriage was scheduled for March 23, 2026, at his native village.
Counsel for the appellant submitted that the presence of the father at his daughter’s wedding was essential, both emotionally and socially. The plea was supported by an affidavit confirming the marriage arrangements.
On the other hand, the State, represented by the Additional Government Advocate, informed the court that the date and fact of the marriage had been verified through the concerned police station.
Justice Ram Manohar Narayan Mishra took note of the submissions and the verification provided by the State.
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“The performing marriage of his daughter is one of the pious obligations in Hindu way of life,” the court observed, acknowledging the cultural and familial importance attached to such events.
The judge found the ground sufficient to grant temporary relief, while also ensuring that appropriate safeguards were in place.
Allowing the application, the High Court granted short-term bail to the appellant from the morning of March 23, 2026, till March 29, 2026.
The release was made subject to execution of a personal bond of ₹20,000 along with two sureties of the same amount, to the satisfaction of the trial court.
The court directed that the appellant must surrender before the trial court on March 30, 2026, after which he would be sent back to custody to continue serving his sentence.
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Additionally, the Station House Officer concerned was instructed to arrange for police supervision during the bail period to monitor the appellant’s movements.
Case Details
Case Title: Desh Raj vs State of U.P.
Case Number: Criminal Appeal No. 3548 of 2023
Judge: Justice Ram Manohar Narayan Mishra
Decision Date: March 20, 2026
