The Madhya Pradesh High Court has granted regular bail to journalist Rajni, observing that the video recordings from her alleged sting operation had already been sent to senior government authorities before the FIR was registered. The Court clarified that it was not expressing any opinion on the merits of the criminal case.
Background of the Case
Rajni, associated with a digital news platform, was arrested in Crime No. 204 of 2026 registered at Kotwali Police Station, Dewas, under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. She claimed the FIR was lodged after she conducted sting operations exposing alleged illegal prenatal sex determination and female foeticide activities. Her counsel argued that the recordings had already been forwarded to the Health Commissioner, NHRC, Director General of Police, and the Chief Medical and Health Officer before the complaint was filed.
Court's Observation
Justice Pavan Kumar Dwivedi noted that the material from the sting operation had been sent to the concerned authorities on 6 and 7 April 2026, while the FIR was registered thereafter.
The bench observed,
"Without commenting anything on merits of the matter,"
the sequence of events justified granting bail in the present case.
Decision
Allowing the first bail application, the High Court directed Rajni's release on a personal bond of ₹1 lakh with one solvent surety of the same amount. The Court also directed her to comply with the statutory bail conditions and remain present before the trial court during the proceedings. It added that any breach of the conditions could lead to cancellation of bail.
Case Details:
Case Title: Rajni v. State of Madhya Pradesh
Case Number: MCRC No. 26708 of 2026
Judge: Justice Pavan Kumar Dwivedi
Decision Date: 25 June 2026
