[Human Sacrifice Case] Kerala Magistrate Court denies bail to accused Laila Bhagawal Singh

A Kerala court on Wednesday refused to grant bail to Laila Bhagawal Singh, one of the accused in the human sacrifice case [Laila Bhagawal Singh v State represented by Inspector of Police, Kadavanthra].Judicial First Class Magistrate-VIII, Ernakulam, Eldos Mathew found merit in the prosecution's contention that the unparalleled crime was well-orchestrated and that thorough investigation is necessary."The investigation of the case is in its preliminary stage. if the accused is released on bail, it will affect the progress of the investigation. There is also chances of her intimidating witnesses, tampering with evidence and absconding," the order stated..In early October this year, the news of two women being murdered, allegedly as part of a human sacrifice ritual, came to light in the State when the dismembered bodies of the women were recovered from Thiruvalla in Pathanamthitta district.Three persons were apprehended the same week for the alleged murder of the women who were both lottery ticket sellers in Ernakulam district.The police arrested one Muhammed Shafi for allegedly for arranging the abduction and committing the sacrificial murder. The other accused, married couple Bhagaval Singh and Laila Bhagawal Singh, were arrested on suspicion of having commissioned and taken part in the sacrificial murder.All three accused were first remanded to judicial custody and then to 12 days police custody..In the bail application moved by Laila, through advocate BA Aloor, it was contended that the police have not found any incriminating evidence against her. It was also argued that she may be given bail considering the fact that she was woman with no criminal antecedents..On the other hand, Assistant Public Prosecutor Anish MC submitted a report filed by the Investigating Officer in which it was stated that Laila had actively participated in the human sacrifice. It was further stated that it was the petitioner who had slit the neck of the first victim and cut her to collect blood. In the second murder too, she was an active participant, it was argued..Considering the greivous nature of the offence and the stage of investigation, the Magistrate found that Laila is not entitled to bail on the ground that she is a woman.