The Gujarat High Court has refused regular bail to a man accused in a case involving the alleged illegal storage and sale of beef, observing that his repeated involvement in similar cases weighed against granting him relief. The Court also directed the trial court to conduct the trial expeditiously after noting that the charge sheet had already been filed.
Background of the Case
The bail application was filed by Mohammad Aarif Abdul Razak Samol under Section 483 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). He has been in custody since January 3, 2026, in connection with an FIR registered at Godhra Town 'B' Division Police Station, Panchmahal, for offences under the Gujarat Animal Preservation Act, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and the Gujarat Police Act. The defence argued that the investigation had concluded, the charge sheet was filed, and the applicant had no further role in the investigation.
Court's Observations
Justice Hasmukh D. Suthar noted that the prosecution alleged recovery of around 23 kilograms of suspected beef, along with a knife, weighing scale and other materials during a police raid. The Court also took note of the prosecution's claim that some co-accused remain absconding and that the applicant has eight previous cases of a similar nature on record.
"The antecedents of the applicant indicate a recurring pattern of conduct and, prima facie, demonstrate misuse of the liberty granted by the Court," the bench observed.
It further held that "the societal interest outweighs the claim of the applicant for grant of regular bail."
Decision
Finding no grounds to exercise its discretion in favour of the applicant, the High Court rejected the regular bail plea. At the same time, it directed the trial court to make every effort to conclude the trial promptly, noting that only 26 prosecution witnesses have been cited and many are official or repeated witnesses.
Case Details:
Case Title: Mohammad Aarif Abdul Razak Samol v. State of Gujarat
Case Number: R/Criminal Misc. Application (For Regular Bail – After Chargesheet) No. 7540 of 2026
Judge: Justice Hasmukh D. Suthar
Decision Date: 18 June 2026
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