The Kerala High Court on Monday dismissed the bail application of Laila Bhagawal Singh, one of the key accused in the 2022 human sacrifice case.Justice Sophy Thomas concluded that the gravity of the crime and the active role played by the petitioner made her ineligible for bail despite her gender and age.The Court emphasized the impact of the crime on societal peace and tranquility, stating that releasing her could send a wrong message to like-minded criminals.
Therefore, the Court dismissed the petition and the trial court was directed to ensure a prompt trial without delay.The Court expressed deep concern over the alleged crime, saying it was a shame to humanity and a potential blow to Kerala's cultural heritage.In early October 2022, news of two women who had been murdered, allegedly as part of a human sacrifice ritual, came to light in the State when the dismembered bodies of the women were recovered from Thiruvalla in Pathanamthitta district.The victims were lottery ticket sellers in Ernakulam district.Three persons were apprehended the same week for the crime.The police arrested one Muhammed Shafi for allegedly for arranging the abduction and committing the sacrificial murder. The other accused, couple Bhagawal Singh and Laila Bhagawal Singh, were arrested on suspicion of having commissioned and taken part in the sacrificial murder.All three accused were first remanded to judicial custody and then to 12 days of police custody.In November, Judicial First Class Magistrate-VIII at Ernakulam Eldos Mathew refused to grant Laila bail as he found merit in the prosecution's contention that the unparalleled crime was well-orchestrated and that a thorough investigation was necessary."The investigation of the case is in its preliminary stage. if the accused is released on bail, it will affect the progress of the investigation. There is also chances of her intimidating witnesses, tampering with evidence and absconding," the magistrate's order stated.Subsequently when Laila approached the High Court in January this year, she was refused bail again.She then filed a second bail plea before the High Court which was dismissed today.The petitioner was represented by advocates Biju Antony Aloor, KP Prasanth, Archana Suresh, Haritha Hariharan, Thushara TA and Ailin Elezabeth Mathew.
The State was represented by Public Prosecutor CK Suresh.
TAGS: Kerala High Court bail application Laila Bhagawal Singh key accused 2022 human sacrifice case
