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Synopsis

The Bombay High Court has recently granted bail to a 35-year-old man suffering from schizophrenia, who had been sentenced to life imprisonment for killing his father.

A division bench of the High Court comprising Justice Bharati Dangre and Justice Manjusha Deshpande granted bail to Pradeepkumar Murugan on a personal bond of Rs. 25,000.

The court considered Murugan's mental health report from Yerawada Jail, which stated that he was "behaviorally and mentally unstable," currently admitted to the psychiatry ward due to worsening psychotic symptoms, and in need of continuous psychotropic medication.

Murugan's counsel informed the high court that during the trial, it was brought to the court's attention that he was legally insane under Section 84 of the IPC. The counsel further added that Murugan was suffering from depression and exhibited socially withdrawn behavior.

While granting bail, the high court acknowledged that Murugan was suffering from mental illness.

"Mental health is a state of well-being that enables people to cope with life’s stresses. Unfortunately, societal stigma often leads to discrimination and exclusion," the order reads. 

The bench also added that mental illness in India often leads to under-reporting and misdiagnosis. 

On trial court's order, the bench said that it is not uncommon for laypersons or even magistrates to miss the symptoms of schizophrenia, as they are not experts in mental health.

The bench granted bail to him pending his appeal and asked Murugan's sister to ensure continuous treatment and safety of neighbourhood.