The Allahabad High Court has granted bail to Mukhtar Ahmad, accused in the dowry death of his daughter-in-law, after key prosecution witnesses including the victim’s close relatives retracted their earlier testimonies. The Court also remarked on what appears to be a “rising trend of fake dowry allegations,” calling for careful scrutiny in such cases.
The case stems from an FIR registered at Kotwali Nagar police station, Sultanpur, under Sections 498-A, 304-B IPC, and Sections 3 & 4 of the Dowry Prohibition Act. The complaint alleged that Ahmad’s family had demanded a motorcycle and a car; though a motorcycle was allegedly given, demands continued. On 22 January 2024, the bride was found hanging from a ceiling fan, prompting suspicion of dowry harassment.
Supreme Court’s Earlier Intervention
Ahmad had initially been granted bail by the Allahabad High Court in May 2024, but this was cancelled by the Supreme Court in March 2025. The apex court had cautioned that:
“Courts must exercise heightened vigilance in cases where a young bride dies under suspicious circumstances shortly after marriage.”
It added that dowry-related cases carry a “strong social message about the seriousness of such crimes in India.”
Witnesses Reverse Their Testimonies
During the trial, several star witnesses changed their earlier statements, significantly weakening the prosecution’s case.
- The victim’s brother admitted that earlier allegations were made under “societal pressure,” adding that he initially believed the death appeared to be a suicide.
- The victim’s father, maternal uncle, and elder sister also failed to support the prosecution and were declared hostile.
High Court Observes Trend of False Accusations
Justice Pankaj Bhatia, while granting bail, noted that the case reflected a worrying pattern:
“This reversal highlights a concerning pattern of inconsistent or possibly false allegations in dowry-related cases. Fake dowry cases appear to be on the rise.”
The Court also took into account that Ahmad has been in custody since mid-March 2025 and that the evidence against him had substantially weakened after the witness retractions.
Bail Granted with Strict Conditions
The High Court ordered Ahmad’s release subject to:
- A personal bond and two sureties of ₹20,000 each
- Mandatory attendance at all court hearings
- A direction to not influence or intimidate witnesses
- A restraint from committing any similar offences
The decision comes at a time when courts across India continue to grapple with the dual challenge of protecting genuine victims of dowry abuse while also preventing misuse of dowry laws.
Case: Ahmad vs. State Of U.P. Thru. Addl. Chief Secy. – Available on LAWFYI.IO
