Donate

The Long Road Home: A Freedom Too Late

Brief:

Imprisoned for over a year despite securing bail, Binod’s release was delayed by legal loopholes and judicial negligence. His journey back home was bittersweet; his family believed him dead, and with the efforts of the LAW Foundation, he got released and was able to spend minimal time with his family as he tragically passed away just 20 days after his release. Read more to uncover the heartbreaking reality of his case.

Background:

Binod Kumar Mahto (50) was imprisoned in Phulwari Jail since June 13, 2023, under Section 401 of the IPC, for alleged involvement in a theft gang, a crime that could imprison him for up to seven years. Desperate for freedom, he collected ₹4000 and hired an advocate. In April 2024, he secured bail from the Sessions Court but remained in jail as the bail bond was never furnished. Months passed, but no steps were taken to modify the order. Struggling with level 2 fatty liver disease, internal bleeding, and low hemoglobin, he was somehow receiving treatment at PMCH.

Intervention:

The panel advocates of the LAW Foundation met Binod in jail and filed for a PR Bond in July 2024, securing his release in August after submitting his Aadhar card to the trial court. Binod finally tasted the fresh air of freedom for the first time in over a year. Our panel advocates and Jail officers escorted Binod to his home in Sonepur. Binod faced a shocking truth—his family had believed him dead, as he had abandoned his family 14 years ago. His children were frozen in disbelief and struggled with the pain of abandonment and the joy of reunion, while his wife, who was away at work, remained unaware of his return. Binod spent his final days at an unfamiliar home, passing away just 20 days after his release.

Insights:

  1. Judicial negligence: Binod could have been freed earlier if his advocate furnished the bail bond on time.
  2. Discrepancies in prison and court procedures: The PR Bond was filed in July 2024, three months after his bail, while the requirement to submit his original Aadhar card added another bureaucratic hurdle, further delaying his release.