Bombay HC Acquits Pune Court Clerk In 29-Year-Old ₹500 Bribery Case, Cites Lack Of Proof Of Demand

Bombay High Court acquitted Shailendra Bakare, a Pune court clerk, in a 29-year-old Rs 500 bribery case.

Justice N.J. Jamadar set aside the 2003 conviction, citing lack of proof of demand for illegal gratification.

The prosecution case had contradictions, including the timing of the complaint and absence of independent verification of demand.

The court held that mere recovery of tainted currency notes is insufficient to prove an offence under the Prevention of Corruption Act.

The defence version that the complainant thrust the notes into Bakare's pocket could not be discredited.