The Kerala High Court granted anticipatory bail to Jinto P.D., a bodybuilder and winner of Bigg Boss Malayalam Season 6, in connection with a case alleging theft and damage at a gym he was associated with. The complaint, lodged at Palarivattom Police Station, accused Jinto of forcibly entering the gym named “Jinto Body Craft,” damaging CCTV cameras, and stealing ₹10,000 along with important documents. The prosecution contended that the accused trespassed into the premises without authorization and caused destruction to property, framing charges related to theft and mischief.
While considering the plea, Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas noted that there existed a profit-sharing agreement between Jinto and the complainant, indicating that the gym was operated as a joint venture. This arrangement suggested that Jinto was not a stranger to the premises, thereby weakening the prosecution’s argument that he had unlawfully entered and committed theft. The Court observed that the existence of such a partnership made it inappropriate to conclude at the preliminary stage that the accused had stolen valuables or documents from his own business establishment.
The Court further took into account that the current complaint was filed merely four days after Jinto had secured anticipatory bail in another case lodged by the same complainant, which raised doubts about the motive behind the timing of the complaint. The Court inferred that the circumstances did not necessitate custodial interrogation, as the issues involved were primarily civil in nature and arose from a business dispute between the parties.
In light of these factors, the High Court granted Jinto anticipatory bail subject to specific conditions, including a directive to appear before the investigating officer for further inquiry. The Court emphasized that the investigation should continue lawfully and without unnecessary interference, and that the question of guilt or innocence would be determined based on evidence during the trial. The ruling reflects the Court’s stance that bail should not be denied when allegations stem from a commercial relationship and lack strong prima facie evidence of criminal intent.
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