Jaipur, April 21 (NationPress) The Supreme Court on Monday revoked the bail previously granted to the accused cow smuggler Nazim Khan.

The bench, which included Justice Suryakant and Justice N. Kotishwar Singh, accepted a review petition submitted by the Rajasthan government, leading to the annulment of the earlier bail order issued in Khan's favor.

Approximately six months ago, the apex court had granted bail to Khan.

However, the Rajasthan government subsequently filed a review petition, highlighting that the accused is a habitual offender.

Official records indicate that at least eight cases, including those under the Cow Slaughter Act, Gangster Act, Arms Act, and for attempted murder, are registered against him across various police stations in Uttar Pradesh.

Khan has been declared a fugitive in five of these cases, with multiple non-bailable warrants issued for his arrest.

In this instance, he had been evading capture for over three years until he was apprehended from Aligarh Jail in April 2024, where he was already detained in connection with other cow smuggling allegations.

Additional Advocate General Shiv Mangal Sharma informed the court that Khan was granted bail on October 21, 2024, in the absence of a government attorney, which led to the court not being fully informed about Khan's extensive criminal history.

Upon examining the new petition and evidence, the Supreme Court noted that leniency cannot be afforded to habitual offenders who jeopardize public safety by persistently violating the law.

According to police reports, Nazim Khan was implicated in a significant cow smuggling operation along with his accomplices.

On February 13, 2021, a container truck suspected of carrying cattle was intercepted during a patrol in the Nadauti police station area of Karauli district in Rajasthan.

The vehicle, which originated from Gangapur city, was discovered to be transporting 26 cows of various ages.

Regrettably, three calves (aged 3–6 years) and one adult cow (about five years old) were found dead inside.

While the driver and one other suspect were arrested at the scene, Khan evaded capture.

He remained at large until his arrest on April 30, 2024.

The Supreme Court's ruling represents a significant advancement in the battle against organized cattle smuggling and underscores the judiciary's position on habitual criminal offenders, according to officials.