In a significant development in an ₹80 lakh cyber fraud case, the Rajasthan High Court has reserved its order on the anticipatory bail plea of an accused, while indicating the possibility of a larger conspiracy. During the hearing, the court treated the matter with seriousness and assured that justice would be delivered to the elderly victim. The case pertains to an alleged fraud involving an 83-year-old retired school teacher from Ajmer, which has drawn strong judicial attention.
Defence vs Prosecution: Role of Temani and the 17 Accused
During the proceedings, it emerged that only ₹5 lakh from the defrauded amount was allegedly traced to the account of accused Naveen Temani. The defence argued that Temani was willing to deposit double the amount and claimed that the main accused, Sovan Mandal—already in judicial custody—was responsible for the bulk of the fraud. The defence maintained that Temani’s role was limited and sought relief on these grounds.
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However, the prosecution strongly opposed the plea, arguing that the case points to a wider cyber fraud network involving multiple individuals and potentially several victims. Investigating authorities informed the court that a Look Out Circular has been issued against the accused and extradition proceedings are underway, indicating the seriousness of the case. They contended that granting bail at this stage could hamper the ongoing investigation.
The prosecution further argued that any attempt at compromise or offer to return money cannot dilute the gravity of the offence. The court was informed that as many as 17 accused have already been arrested in connection with the case and the investigation is still in progress. In such a scenario, granting relief to any accused could adversely affect the probe.
Elderly Victim in Court, Emotional Moment, and Judicial Concern
An emotional moment during the hearing came when the 83-year-old complainant appeared in court in a wheelchair. Earlier, the court had taken note of her condition and directed the state government to provide proper boarding and lodging arrangements in Jaipur at state expense, considering she lives alone in Ajmer and has to travel for hearings. However, the victim declined the offer, stating that she was managing on her own.
The court was also informed that due to the prolonged investigation, the victim felt compelled to accept ₹10 lakh—significantly lower than her total loss. Observing this, the court remarked that the case had “shocked the conscience” of the judiciary and reflected the sensitivity of such crimes.
Direction for Thorough Probe and Broader Implications
Earlier, the court had sought complete records of the case and directed senior officials to join the proceedings virtually. It emphasized the need for a thorough investigation in cyber fraud cases to uncover the entire network and ensure justice not just for the present victim but for others who may be affected.
For now, after hearing arguments from all sides, the High Court has reserved its order on the anticipatory bail plea. The outcome is expected to have wider implications, especially in the context of rising cybercrime cases.
Experts believe that in such cases, recovery of money alone is not sufficient; dismantling the entire network and ensuring strict punishment for those involved is crucial. The court’s firm stance signals a growing judicial resolve to deal strictly with cyber fraud and protect vulnerable victims.
