SATRUGHANA SAHOO Vs. STATE OF ODISHA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) Heard Learned Counsel for the petitioner and Learned Addl. Government Advocate for the State. The petitioner is apprehending arrest for the alleged commission of offence under Sec. 420 of the IPC and Sec. 7 of Religious Institution Prevention of Misuse Act in G.R. Case No. 855/2015 of the Court of Learned J.M.F.C., Jajpur Road arising out of Jajpur road, P.S. Case No. 306/2015.

(2.) The petitioner happens to be a spiritual man. He has a Ashrama called "Paduka Ashrama". The members of the Jajpur District Tax Bar Association has filed an FIR against him allegedly stating that the petitioner is cheating persons as his followers are praising and praying him to be God. So, it is therefore alleged that the sentiment of Hindu Religion is being effected. However, this Court is of the opinion that neither offence under Sec. 420 of the IPC nor an offence under Sec. 7 of Religious Institution Prevention of Misuse Act is made out against the present petitioner. Keeping in view the aforesaid consideration and the facts of the case, this Court is inclined to grant anticipatory bail to the petitioner. Accordingly, the anticipatory bail application of the petitioner is allowed. On the event of his arrest, he shall be released on bail by the arresting officer on such terms and conditions as deemed just and proper by him in the aforesaid case.