SWATI DHARMESHBHAI SAVANI Vs. STATE OF GUJARAT

JUDGEMENT

(1.) RULE. Learned APP waives service of rule for the respondent-State.

(2.) By way of the present application under Sec. 482 of Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS), the applicant accused has prayed to release him on anticipatory bail in the event of his arrest in connection with the FIR being C.R. No.11198006250037 of 2025 registered with Ghogha Road Police Station, Bhavnagar for the offences punishable under Ss. 406, 409, 465, 467, 468, 471, 120(b) and 34 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860 (for short "IPC") / The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (for short "BNS").

(3.) Learned Advocate appearing on behalf of the applicant submits that the applicant has nothing to do with the offence and he is falsely implicated in the offence. It is submitted that the prosecution alleges that since 12/6/2023, the original informant has been serving as the Regional Head (AGM) at the Bank of Baroda's Bhavnagar office. Under a government scheme for small-scale industries, loans were sanctioned based on applications verified by the bank's Branch Manager and Credit Officer. However, an audit in April 2023 revealed that multiple loans were granted using forged quotations and invoices. Upon verification, the required machinery was found missing at the business locations. Some accused repaid the loans after receiving notices, while others failed to do so. Allegedly, the bank officials did not follow SOPs, and the accused colluded to fraudulently obtain loans, causing a financial loss of Rs.1,01,35,341.00. The present applicant is a lady accused and she has not played any active role in the offence. She has already paid the entire loaned amount. There is nothing to be recovered or discovered from the present applicant. It is further submitted that, considering the nature of the offence, the applicant may be granted bail with the imposition of suitable conditions.