The Madhya Pradesh High Court has granted bail to a man arrested in connection with an alleged illegal liquor transportation case while also directing a departmental inquiry into the conduct of the investigating officer. The Court noted apparent lapses in the investigation and asked the Superintendent of Police to examine the matter and submit a report.
Background of the Case
The case arose from Crime No. 477/2025 registered at Kotwali Alirajpur Police Station in Alirajpur district under provisions of the Madhya Pradesh Excise Act. According to the prosecution, police intercepted a truck allegedly carrying illicit liquor. The driver reportedly abandoned the vehicle and fled from the spot under cover of darkness.
During the investigation, the police arrested Kamru, claiming that his involvement emerged from a statement made by the owner of the vehicle. The applicant had been in custody since April 15, 2026.
Counsel appearing for the applicant argued that there was no direct evidence linking him to the alleged offence. It was submitted that the arrest was made nearly six months after the incident and was primarily based on an alleged agreement of sale relating to the vehicle.
The defence further contended that the investigation had not been conducted properly. It pointed out that neither the notary associated with the agreement nor the witnesses to the document had been examined during the investigation. The applicant also emphasized that he had no previous criminal record and that the trial was likely to take considerable time to conclude.
The State opposed the bail plea and sought its rejection.
After examining the case diary and hearing both sides, the Court took note of the period already spent by the applicant in custody and the likelihood of a prolonged trial.
Justice Jai Kumar Pillai also expressed concern over the manner in which the investigation had been conducted. The Court observed that the matter required scrutiny so that similar lapses do not recur in future investigations.
The Court directed the Superintendent of Police concerned to initiate an inquiry against the investigating officer and ensure that the inquiry report is submitted to the Principal Registrar of the High Court after completion. The inquiry has been ordered to be completed within two months.
Allowing the first bail application, the High Court ordered the release of the applicant on bail upon furnishing a personal bond of ₹25,000 along with one solvent surety of the like amount.
“The Court is inclined to allow the present application,” the bench observed while clarifying that no opinion was being expressed on the merits of the case.
The applicant was also directed to comply with the statutory conditions applicable to bail.
Case Details:
Case Title: Kamru v. State of Madhya Pradesh
Case Number: M.Cr.C. No. 23492 of 2026
Judge: Justice Jai Kumar Pillai
Decision Date: May 29, 2026
