Bombay HC Quashes Non-Bailable Warrant Against Arjun Rampal in 2019 Tax Case

The Bombay High Court, on May 16, 2025, quashed a non-bailable warrant issued against actor Arjun Rampal in a 2019 tax evasion case, observing that the trial court’s order lacked proper reasoning and was passed in a bailable offence.

The warrant, issued by the Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate at Ballard Pier on April 9, 2025, was challenged by Rampal under Section 482 of the CrPC and Section 528 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita.

His counsel argued that the actor's lawyer had filed a vakalatnama and an exemption application on the hearing date, but the Magistrate rejected it, citing non-compliance with bail provisions.

Justice Advait M. Sethna noted that the offence under Section 276C(2) of the Income Tax Act, punishable by a maximum of three years, is bailable.

The Court held that the Magistrate’s order was “mechanical,” “cryptic,” and devoid of reasons, causing undue prejudice to the petitioner.

Observing that the petitioner’s counsel was present in court and yet the exemption was overlooked, the High Court ruled the warrant contrary to law.

While the revenue department did not oppose the limited relief, the Court clarified that the case proceedings would continue on merits before the Magistrate.

The next hearing is scheduled for June 16, 2025.

Case Title: Arjun Rampal v. Income Tax Department