the Allahabad High Court has granted bail to 32 individuals convicted in a 1990 caste violence case in Agra, reigniting debates over justice and accountability in long-standing communal disputes. The decision, delivered by Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav on August 28, 2025, comes as part of a criminal appeal filed by Jaidev and 31 others, who were sentenced to five years in prison by an Agra court on May 28, 2025.

The case stems from violent clashes that erupted in 1990 under the Kagaraul police station jurisdiction in Agra, rooted in caste-based tensions. The trial court’s conviction earlier this year marked a significant moment in a case that has lingered for over three decades. However, the appellants’ counsel argued that the 32 accused were falsely implicated, pointing to inconsistencies in the testimonies of 27 prosecution witnesses. The lawyer contended that the trial court overlooked these contradictions, leading to an unjust conviction.

The counsel further highlighted the advanced age of most appellants, noting that many are over 65 and suffer from various health issues. The court was informed that the accused had been on bail throughout the trial without misusing their liberty. Since their conviction on May 28, 2025, they have been in custody, but with no immediate prospect of an early appeal hearing, the counsel argued for their release on bail.

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Justice Yadav’s order noted that 95-year-old appellant Devi Singh had already been granted short-term bail on August 4, 2025, due to his age and condition. The court emphasized that the bail decision was made without commenting on the case’s merits, acknowledging that the final appeal disposal could take considerable time.

The ruling has sparked mixed reactions. Supporters of the accused argue that the bail reflects fairness, given the appellants’ age and the prolonged legal process. However, critics, including community leaders, express concern that the decision could undermine justice for victims of the 1990 violence. The case has drawn attention to the challenges of resolving decades-old caste conflicts within India’s judicial system, with questions lingering about evidence reliability and trial fairness.

As the appeal process continues, the bail order offers temporary relief to the 32 appellants, but the case’s final resolution remains uncertain, leaving both communities and legal observers watching closely.

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