Did MP HC Grant Bail to Absconding Police Officer in Atmaram Pardhi Case?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Madhya Pradesh High Court grants bail to a prime suspect in a high-profile murder case.
- Suspect Ramveer Kushwaha has been absconding since 2023.
- The absence of the victim's body poses challenges for prosecution.
- Public outcry continues for justice in the Atmaram Pardi case.
- The case highlights concerns about law enforcement accountability.
Bhopal, Sep 28 (NationPress) In a significant turn of events regarding the Atmaram Pardi murder investigation, the Madhya Pradesh High Court has granted bail to dismissed Sub-Inspector Ramveer Singh Kushwaha, who is the main suspect and had been on the run since 2023.
A bench in Gwalior issued the ruling on Saturday, permitting Kushwaha to secure bail by providing a personal bond of Rs one lakh. This decision has sparked renewed public discourse, particularly in light of the grave accusations and the persistent demand for justice from the victim’s family.
Having evaded law enforcement since 2023, Ramveer Kushwaha managed to avoid capture despite numerous attempts by the police and the Crime Investigation Department (CID). Earlier this year in March, following a CID recommendation for intensified efforts, the reward for his capture was raised from Rs 30,000 to Rs 50,000. Notices for property confiscation were issued, and his name circulated across various police stations, yet he remained elusive.
His unexpected return through a bail petition has reintroduced him into the ongoing legal proceedings.
The case itself dates back to 2015, when Atmaram Pardi, a resident of Guna district, allegedly went to the Parvati River to perform a ritual in memory of his aunt. According to family accounts, police personnel led by Kushwaha arrived at the location, resulting in Atmaram being reportedly shot dead, with his body remaining unrecovered.
The CID later apprehended Constable Yogendra Sisodiya, who spent two years in jail, and another suspect, Dinesh Gurjar, who was released on bail. Despite the increased reward, Kushwaha continued to evade capture.
In granting bail, the High Court pointed out that the prosecution has failed to recover the victim's body even after ten years. Justice Anil Verma stated, “The dead body of Atmaram has never been recovered, and no conclusive MLC or FSL report is on record concerning Atmaram's death. The CID, Bhopal, also issued a proclamation on 03.03.2022 regarding the missing individual Atmaram Pardhi.”
The bench overturned an earlier ruling from the Special Judge (Atrocity Act), Guna, asserting that “no offence under the Act, 1989 is prima facie established against him (the accused).”
The family of Atmaram Pardi continues to seek a comprehensive investigation and the recovery of his remains. Just last week, the Supreme Court criticized the Central Bureau of Investigation for its lack of progress in apprehending Kushwaha.
With Kushwaha expected to reappear in court, the case may gain traction again; however, the absence of crucial evidence poses a significant challenge for ensuring accountability. The court has instructed the accused to “adhere to the conditions specified under Section 480(3) of BNSS.”