Dharwad HC allows custody before formal charges

The Dharwad bench of the High Court ruled that trial courts can keep accused individuals in custody before formally acknowledging charges. This decision came while dismissing a bail petition from a man accused of sexually abusing a student. The accused argued for bail, claiming the investigation exceeded the 60-day limit. However, the court noted that the chargesheet was filed on January 24, 2025, and the trial judge had acknowledged it, justifying the denial of bail. Justice Srishananda stated that the court's authority to remand the accused remains until the chargesheet is fully verified. The court's dismissal of the petition does not prevent the accused from seeking regular bail later.