Delhi High Court delivered a nuanced decision today, offering 15 days of interim bail to Rihan Khan alias Dulare, charged with dowry murder, solely to facilitate his young daughter’s school enrollment. With classes underway, Justice Girish Kathpalia recognized the time-sensitive nature of admissions.
The bench highlighted that the entire procedure demands about two weeks, and the child’s current stay with paternal grandparents necessitates the father’s involvement for paperwork and verification.
Addressing discrepancies in the status report regarding the family’s income—whether the parents are laborers or self-employed—the court focused on the core issue: securing the girl’s education without delay.
The government counsel, acting on the IO’s guidance, consented to the bail without major reservations, cautioning against any attempt to convert it into regular bail through misuse.
Conditions include posting a Rs 10,000 personal bond and matching surety, subject to trial court approval. The order firmly states no requests for extension will be considered.
Registered under serious charges including IPC 498A (cruelty), 304B (dowry death), and Dowry Act provisions at Khajuri Khas PS, this interim relief underscores the judiciary’s sensitivity to family welfare amid grave allegations.
