Sun Sep 14 14:10:22 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summarized news article based on the provided text:
**Summary:**
The Kerala High Court has reaffirmed its authority to consider anticipatory bail applications directly, even if applicants haven’t approached the Sessions Court first. This decision comes despite the Supreme Court raising concerns that such a practice could overwhelm the High Court with cases and suggesting that applicants should first go to the Sessions Court. The Kerala High Court defended its position by citing precedents and noting that the applicant had the right to choose the court. It also stated it had already heard the case before the Supreme Court’s observation and had to issue a ruling on its merits.
**News Article:**
**Kerala High Court Defends Right to Hear Direct Anticipatory Bail Pleas**
**KOCHI, India – September 14, 2025** – The Kerala High Court has asserted its power to hear anticipatory bail applications directly from litigants, even if they haven’t first approached the Sessions Court. This stance comes amidst a debate sparked by the Supreme Court, which recently issued a notice questioning the practice and suggesting it could overburden the High Court.
The High Court, while considering an anticipatory bail plea from an IT firm owner accused of sexual assault, cited existing legal precedents, including those set by the Supreme Court itself, as justification for its position. It emphasized that applicants have the right to choose their forum.
The Supreme Court had previously expressed concerns that allowing direct access to the High Court for pre-arrest bail applications under Section 482 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) would bypass the Sessions Court, disrupting the judicial hierarchy.
In its defense, the Kerala High Court stated that it had already entertained the case and reserved its orders before the Supreme Court voiced its concerns. The Court felt obligated to issue a ruling on the merits of the case.
The ruling highlights a potential difference in interpretation regarding the appropriate channels for seeking anticipatory bail, with the Supreme Court emphasizing judicial hierarchy and the Kerala High Court defending the individual’s right to choose their legal avenue.
First Piper 