Mumbai: Bail Granted to 24-Year-Old Woman Accused of Infanticide Amidst Allegations of Domestic Harassment

Mumbai, 19th January 2024: The Bombay High Court has granted bail to 24-year-old Yukta Rokade, who had been accused of the killing of her nearly four-month-old daughter in March of 2023. The court’s decision took into account the allegations of domestic harassment against her husband and mother-in-law.

Justice Madhav Jamdar, presiding over Rokade’s bail plea, underscored the extended duration of the trial and the absence of any criminal record on the part of the applicant. Justice Jamdar commented, “The trial is unlikely to conclude any time soon and is likely to take a considerably long time. The present applicant does not have any criminal antecedents. The applicant is a young lady and has been incarcerated for more than 9 months. The prosecution’s case is entirely based on circumstantial evidence.”

The charges against Rokade originated from an FIR she filed on March 21 at Gangapur Police Station in Nashik district, alleging an attack by an unknown woman on March 20 that led to the tragic death of her infant daughter. The prosecution argued that Rokade’s injuries were self-inflicted, as indicated by medical examinations, and that CCTV footage contradicted her account of the events.

Furthermore, the prosecution contended that Rokade provided false information and misled authorities about the age of the child. Rokade’s defence, presented by advocate Aniket Vagal, emphasized her post-delivery depression and ongoing familial disputes as contributing factors.

Justice Jamdar acknowledged the presence of 11 witnesses in the May 30 chargesheet and, considering the circumstances directed Rokade’s release on a Rs 10,000 personal bond. However, she is restricted from entering Nashik district, except for police reporting and trial purposes. The case has raised questions about the intersection of mental health, domestic issues, and the legal system, prompting discussions on the need for comprehensive support mechanisms for individuals facing such challenging circumstances.