Patna: A court in Patna on Thursday granted bail to the accused, Manish Ranjan, in connection with the death of a NEET aspirant, after the investigating agency failed to file a chargesheet within the statutory deadline.
The bail was granted under the provision of “default bail”, a legal safeguard that entitles an accused to release if the chargesheet is not filed within 90 days in serious criminal cases.
In this case, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) did not submit the chargesheet within the prescribed period, making Ranjan eligible for bail as a matter of right.
Earlier, on April 10, the court had directed the agency to ensure that the chargesheet was filed within the stipulated timeframe. The subsequent delay was viewed by the court as “gross negligence”, prompting it to recommend a departmental inquiry against the investigating officer handling the case.
Despite the bail order, Ranjan remained in custody on Thursday as the required bail bond had not yet been furnished. Officials indicated that the procedural formalities are expected to be completed shortly, after which he may be released.
The case has drawn significant public attention, with the victim’s family maintaining that they will continue to pursue justice. Supporters of the family have also reiterated their resolve to contest the case until its conclusion.
The conduct of CBI officials in court also attracted scrutiny, with observers noting a departure from the agency’s usual stance, fuelling speculation around the handling of the case.
Legal experts say the development underscores the importance of strict adherence to procedural timelines, warning that even minor lapses by investigating agencies can have serious consequences for the prosecution of criminal cases.
