Punjab and Haryana High Court Rejects Bail for Teenager in Gangster-Linked Shooting Case
The Punjab and Haryana High Court has firmly dismissed a bail application filed by a 17-year-old boy. This juvenile stands accused in a serious shooting and extortion incident that took place in Karnal. Authorities allege his connection to a notorious US-based gangster known as 'Kaka Rana'.
Court Emphasizes Rehabilitation Over Release
In a detailed ruling, the court observed that this child in conflict with law requires structured correctional and rehabilitative care. Justice Aaradhna Sawhney noted that releasing him on bail at this stage would not serve his best interests or public safety.
The evidence on record strongly suggests the juvenile's involvement in the criminal incident. The court stated that in-house correctional services are essential to steer him away from further criminal activities. Justice Sawhney highlighted a critical point during the dismissal.
"The child was in constant communication with a gangster residing in America and was following his instructions," the judge remarked. "Granting bail now would most likely lead him back into contact with known criminals. Even the Social Input Assessment Report indicates his parents have limited control over his actions."Details of the Karnal Incident Emerge
According to the prosecution's case, the events unfolded on January 7, 2025. Gunshots were fired at a mobile phone shop located in Gharaunda, a town approximately 20 kilometers north of Panipat. Notably, two police officers were already stationed at the shop because the owner, Neeraj, had been facing extortion threats.
During the subsequent investigation, police arrested an individual named Sachin Saini, also known as Bhanu. Saini reportedly disclosed the juvenile's involvement in the crime. He claimed the firing was executed on direct orders from gangster 'Kaka Rana', who is said to be operating from the United States.
The accused allegedly received their instructions through social media platforms. They recorded the firing incident and sent the videos as proof to secure payment.
Police Case and Defense Arguments
Police officials state that the juvenile played a key role. He is accused of procuring the weapons and firing from atop a flyover. A co-accused individual allegedly drove the getaway motorcycle during the incident.
Investigators have gathered substantial corroborative evidence, including:
- Detailed call records
- CCTV footage from the area
- Social media data and communications
- Audio recordings of threatening phone calls
The defense counsel for the juvenile presented counter-arguments in court. They pointed out that their client was not named in the original First Information Report (FIR). Furthermore, no eyewitnesses actually saw the firing take place. Key prosecution witnesses admitted during proceedings that they did not see the assailants clearly.
Court's Final Decision and Directions
After carefully hearing arguments from all parties and thoroughly examining the case records, the High Court delivered its verdict. The bail plea was dismissed in its entirety.
The court placed significant emphasis on the juvenile's need for professional intervention. It underscored the importance of receiving in-house correctional services at a designated Children Care Home. Additionally, the bench directed the concerned authorities to expedite the trial process to ensure a timely resolution of the case.
