PAPPU SAH Vs. THE STATE OF JHARKHAND

JUDGEMENT

(1.) I.A. No. 999 of 2015

(2.) Learned counsel appearing for the petitioner submits that the case was fixed for judgment on 4.6.14 but as this petitioner was not present in court at the time of pronouncing the judgment, rather a petition under Section 317 of the Code was filed at his instance, the court below deferred the pronouncement of judgment and cancelled the bail earlier granted by the court and also directed the office to issue Non-bailable warrant against the petitioner. Learned counsel further relying upon the proviso of sub-section 6 of Section 353 of the Code submitted that there was no occasion for the court concerned to defer the pronouncement of judgment merely on the ground that the petitioner was not present in court. The said proviso clearly speaks of that even after one or more accused do not attend the court on the date of the judgment to be pronounced, the Presiding Officer may in order to avoid undue delay in the disposal of the cases, may pronounce the judgment notwithstanding their absence. It was further submitted that the court below ignoring the said proviso deferred the pronouncement of judgment and passed the order impugned dated 4.6.2014. It was also submitted that subsequently the court pronounced the judgment on 31.7.14 acquitting all other accused persons except the petitioner which is contrary to the aforesaid provision. Hence, the impugned order is bad in law and needs interference by this court.

(3.) Learned Addl. P.P. though opposed the prayer but fairly submitted that there is specific provision in the Code under Section 353 to deal with such situation.