Abuse of Power
SC Drops the Hammer! No Bail for IAS Officer in Multi-Crore Land Scam
The Supreme Court has denied bail to retired Gujarat IAS officer Pradeep Sharma, accused of illegally allotting government land for financial gains. The court cited multiple corruption-related FIRs and his influential position as reasons for rejecting his plea.
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday dismissed the bail plea of retired IAS officer Pradeep Nirankarnath Sharma in connection with an illegal land allotment case filed in 2023 in Bhuj, Gujarat. The apex court upheld the Gujarat High Court’s decision, citing multiple corruption-related FIRs against Sharma and his influential position, which could potentially impact the case proceedings.
The Case Against Pradeep Sharma
Pradeep Sharma, who served as the collector of Kutch district, has been accused of criminal breach of trust and corruption for allegedly allotting government land in an illegal manner for monetary benefits. The case, registered with the CID Crime Border Zone Police Station, includes charges under Sections 409 (criminal breach of trust by a public servant), 217 (disobedience of law to save a person from punishment), 120B (criminal conspiracy), and 114 (abettor present when offence is committed) of the Indian Penal Code, along with Section 7(c) of the Prevention of Corruption Act.
Sharma had filed a Special Leave Petition (SLP) challenging the Gujarat High Court’s rejection of his bail plea in March last year. The Supreme Court, however, refused to intervene, stating, “We find no good reason to interfere with the order. The appeal is accordingly dismissed.”
Court’s Observations on Economic Crimes
A bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta rejected Sharma’s bail, highlighting the growing menace of economic crimes in India. The order quoted Justice Divyesh Joshi, who had earlier stated:
“In recent times, there has been an increase in socio-economic offences in the country. These crimes, solely committed for personal gains, are disrupting India’s economic structure and shaking public faith in the system. Given the circumstances, where the accused is highly influential and can manipulate the case, bail should not be granted.”
The Supreme Court acknowledged that corruption cases involving public officials misusing their positions have become a major concern, requiring strict judicial scrutiny.
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Multiple FIRs and Influence in Government
The High Court and Supreme Court noted that Sharma faced numerous FIRs for similar offences during his tenure in public service. The courts expressed apprehension that granting bail could allow him to misuse his position and influence ongoing investigations.
What Lies Ahead?
With his bail plea rejected, Sharma will remain in judicial custody while the CID Crime Border Zone Police continues its investigation. Legal experts suggest that his legal team may consider alternative legal remedies, including an appeal or a review petition.
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