A special court in Maharashtra’s Nashik has granted bail to Nida Khan, one of the accused in an alleged religious conversion case involving employees of an IT company. The court’s order has attracted attention after it referred to the birth of Lord Krishna while explaining why judicial discretion was exercised in favour of the accused, who is currently five months pregnant.
The court clarified that its observations were made solely in the context of the welfare of the unborn child and should not be interpreted as a comment on the merits of the criminal case, which will be decided during trial.
Court Relies on Humanitarian Grounds
Special Judge KG Joshi noted that Nida Khan’s pregnancy was an undisputed fact and observed that an unborn child should not have to begin life inside a prison.
In its order, the court stated, “It is undisputed that the applicant, Nida, is five months pregnant. Like Lord Krishna, no child should have to suffer the trauma or social stigma associated with being born in prison. To avoid such a distressing situation and keeping in mind the welfare of the newborn child, it would be appropriate to exercise judicial discretion in favour of the applicant-accused.”
The observation formed part of the court’s reasoning while allowing her bail application.
Accused Faces Religious Conversion Allegations
Nida Khan was arrested nearly two months ago after police registered a case alleging that she attempted to persuade a female colleague to convert to Islam. Investigators have also accused her of making derogatory remarks against Hindu deities during conversations with co-workers.
According to the investigation, she allegedly distributed burqas and religious literature among colleagues and encouraged them to install religious applications on their mobile phones as part of efforts to promote religious conversion.
The allegations remain under judicial examination, and the accused has denied wrongdoing.
Investigation Completed, Chargesheet Already Filed
While granting bail, the court observed that the investigation against Nida Khan had been completed and that the chargesheet had already been submitted before the court.
The order also noted that, unlike several other accused linked to the broader investigation, only one chargesheet has been filed against her in the case registered at Deolali Camp Police Station.
According to the prosecution, seven other accused are facing multiple FIRs registered over different dates in connection with the alleged conversion network.
Why the Court’s Reference Drew Attention
The bail order has become a subject of public discussion because the allegations against Nida Khan include making objectionable remarks about Hindu gods and goddesses, including Lord Krishna.
Against that backdrop, the court’s reference to Lord Krishna’s birth while explaining the humanitarian basis for granting bail has generated significant attention. However, the judge made it clear that the observation was intended only to emphasise the welfare of the unborn child and was not connected to the truthfulness of the allegations.
Bail Does Not Decide Guilt
The court reiterated that granting bail does not amount to acquittal or a finding on innocence. Bail is granted after considering factors such as the stage of investigation, filing of the chargesheet, the possibility of influencing witnesses, and humanitarian considerations.
The criminal proceedings against Nida Khan and the other accused will continue, with the court expected to determine the case solely on the basis of evidence presented during the trial.
FAQs
Why was Nida Khan granted bail?
The court granted bail primarily on humanitarian grounds, noting that the accused is five months pregnant and observing that an unborn child should not have to be born inside a prison.
Why did the court mention Lord Krishna?
The judge referred to Lord Krishna’s birth in prison while explaining that no child should face the trauma or stigma of being born in jail. The reference was made only to explain the humanitarian reasoning behind the bail order.
What are the allegations against Nida Khan?
She is accused of pressuring a colleague to convert to Islam, distributing religious material, encouraging installation of religious applications, and allegedly making derogatory remarks about Hindu deities.
Has the court declared her innocent?
No. The court has only granted bail. The allegations will be examined during the trial, and bail does not determine guilt or innocence.
Has the investigation been completed?
Yes. The court noted that the investigation has been completed and the chargesheet has already been filed.
