In Brief
Mohammad Azam Khan, a politician facing 87 criminal cases, sought interim bail in a case (FIR No. 70 of 2020) where he was added as an accused after 1 year 7 months—coinciding with pending bail applications in another case. Having secured bail in 86 of 87 cases, he argued the late implication was political vendetta to prevent his release. The Supreme Court, exercising Article 142 jurisdiction, granted interim bail, noting the peculiar pattern and delay suggested an attempt to circumvent anticipated bail relief. The Court emphasized bail is a right, not exception, and courts should not conduct detailed merit inquiries. Interim bail continues until regular bail is decided, plus two weeks if denied.
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