'Prolonged Pre-Trial Detention Cannot Become Punishment Without Trial': Supreme Court Grants Bail To Former Rajasthan Minister In Jal Jeevan Mission Corruption Case

New Delhi, October 22, 2026: The Supreme Court has ruled that indefinite pre-trial detention cannot be used as punishment, emphasizing the protection of personal liberty and a speedy trial in cases involving serious allegations of financial irregularities. In a case related to alleged irregularities in Jal Jeevan Mission-related tenders, the Court granted bail to former Congress minister Mahesh Chandra Joshi and Mukesh Pathak.

While acknowledging the gravity of the allegations, the Court emphasized that they alone cannot justify indefinite custody. The ruling clarifies that continued detention must be carefully considered, taking into account factors like the amount of evidence and the duration of the trial. The Court acknowledged that the State had a legitimate interest in opposing bail in such cases but stressed that all relevant factors must be weighed before making a decision.