In Brief
A man accused of dowry-related offences and cruelty sought anticipatory bail. The High Court granted it but imposed onerous conditions, including requiring the couple to appear together every three months and live together, with bail cancellation threatened if the wife complained of continued torture. The Supreme Court set aside these conditions, holding that while courts can impose conditions under Section 437(3)(c) of the Code of Criminal Procedure in the 'interest of justice', such conditions must relate to good administration of justice or trial advancement. Arbitrary, absurd, or onerous conditions lacking such nexus cannot be imposed and exceed judicial jurisdiction.
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