SC Grants Anwar Dhebar Interim Bail But Bars Him From Staying In Chhattisgarh

The Supreme Court on Wednesday granted interim bail to businessman Anwar Dhebar in connection with the alleged Chhattisgarh liquor scam, while imposing strict conditions that bar him from residing in Chhattisgarh during the bail period. The top court also directed Dhebar to cooperate fully with the investigation by providing his residential address and contact details to the investigating officer and allowed him to enter the state only for court proceedings or trial-related appearances. A bench led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana, passed the order after examining confidential material submitted by the Chhattisgarh government in a sealed cover.

While the court acknowledged the state's reliance on confidential information, it held that the petitioner's right to personal liberty also deserved consideration, resulting in the grant of interim bail with conditions. "The state has relied upon confidential information. However, balancing the petitioner's right of liberty, we direct that the petitioner be released on interim bail," the bench observed while pronouncing its order. The court made it clear that Dhebar would not be permitted to stay in Chhattisgarh during the bail period and could enter the state only to attend trial proceedings or appear before courts in connection with the case.

The Chhattisgarh government strongly opposed the bail plea during the hearing. Senior advocate Mahesh Jethmalani, appearing for the state along with Additional Advocate General Ravi Sharma, urged the court not to grant relief, citing serious concerns over Dhebar's release. To support its objections, the state submitted confidential information in a sealed cover, which was examined by the bench before the order was passed. Representing Dhebar, senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi objected to the state's reliance on sealed-cover material, arguing against the procedure during the hearing.

Also Read: Supreme Court Allows NEET Protest FIR Withdrawals, Excludes Cases Involving Serious Crimes

Despite the objection, the Supreme Court proceeded to consider the confidential submissions while simultaneously emphasising the importance of safeguarding the petitioner's constitutional right to liberty. The court ultimately struck a balance by granting interim bail subject to stringent restrictions aimed at ensuring the integrity of the ongoing investigation. The alleged Chhattisgarh liquor scam has been one of the state's most closely watched corruption cases, with investigating agencies alleging irregularities in the liquor distribution and excise system that caused substantial losses to the state exchequer while generating illegal proceeds for those involved.

Multiple arrests and investigations have been carried out in connection with the case, which has also become a politically sensitive issue in the state. The Supreme Court's latest order does not amount to a final adjudication on the merits of the allegations against Dhebar. Instead, it provides him temporary relief while ensuring that the investigation continues without interference. By restricting his stay outside Chhattisgarh and requiring him to cooperate with investigators, the court sought to balance the interests of justice with the protection of individual liberty. The matter is expected to continue before the appropriate courts as the investigation and trial progress.

Also Read: Cauvery Row Escalates As Tamil Nadu Seeks SC Intervention Over Water Sharing Dispute