A bench of the Supreme Court of India comprising Justices Prashant Kumar Mishra and N. V. Anjaria has asked the Maharashtra government to file a prompt response to a petition filed by alleged serial killer Jagdish Kailash Shejav, also known as Dhananjay Shinde. He has challenged the Bombay High Court order refusing him bail in the 2012 Oshiwara murder case.

The Supreme Court issued notice and gave the state two weeks to file its reply. However, it did not stay the high court’s decision and said it will examine the case further after receiving the response.

Shinde, represented by his counsel, filed the petition last Thursday against the High court’s February 13 order rejecting his bail.

Reason for Bail Rejection:

The high court refused bail because it believed Shinde might run away, especially since the trial is close to finishing. It also noted that he had earlier violated parole in another case and remained absconding for more than two years.

Links to Other Murders:

According to the prosecution, during this period, he again got in touch with the criminal gang of Vijay Palande, who is accused in several 2012 murders. These include the Oshiwara unidentified man’s murder, businessman Arun Tikku’s killing in Malad, and film producer Karan Kakkad’s death in Goregaon.

The high court highlighted the seriousness of the charges, his past criminal record, and the risk that he could flee or interfere with the trial, and therefore denied bail. It said that the evidence on record and his past conduct of evading custody showed a clear risk that he could misuse his liberty.

Shinde is accused of planning and carrying out the Oshiwara murder along with Palande as part of the 2012 crimes linked to his gang.

Next Steps in Supreme Court:

The prosecution has opposed bail before the Supreme Court as well. The Supreme Court has now asked the Maharashtra government to file its written response within two weeks, after which the next hearing will be scheduled.

Case Details: JAGDISH KAILASH SHEJAV @ DHANANJAY KAILASH SHINDE ALIAS DANNY Vs. STATE OF MAHARASHTRA