Sonali Phogat Murder Case: Accused Granted Bail, Family Expresses Dissatisfaction

CHANDIGARH: PA Sudhir Sangwan, the accused in the murder case of Haryana BJP leader Sonali Phogat, was granted bail by the lower court yesterday, raising concerns and dissatisfaction within the victim's family. Sudhir Sangwan is expected to be released from jail today. Sonali's brother, Rinku Dhaka, expressed his dissatisfaction with the decision, asserting that the power to grant bail in a murder case lies with the High Court, not the trial court.

In response to the bail order, Sonali's family intends to consult with their lawyers and approach the High Court to challenge the decision. Rinku Dhaka alleges that the arguments presented by the CBI counsel and their own lawyer were not adequately heard. He further claims that their case is not being given due attention in Goa, insinuating that the local government is allegedly involved in protecting the accused.

Yashodhara, Sonali's daughter, is currently residing at her maternal home in Fatehabad. She, too, expressed surprise and disappointment at the recent bail decision, stating that justice has not been served. A Facebook post from Sonali's account reinforces their sentiments, lamenting the granting of bail to both accused individuals and questioning the efficacy of the country's judiciary. The post includes a picture of Sonali with her daughter.

Sudhir Sangwan, Sonali's personal assistant, has been granted bail by the lower court after spending ten months in custody. As per the court's conditions, Sudhir Sangwan will be required to reside in Goa and report to the police station every week. He was initially arrested by the Goa Police on August 25 last year on charges related to the NDPS Act, for which he was also granted bail. The next hearing for this matter is scheduled for June 27.