Prayagraj, October 29 (TNA) Samajwadi Party leader and former Uttar Pradesh minister Azam Khan and his son, former MLA Abdullah Azam Khan, received major relief from the Allahabad High Court on Thursday in the dual PAN card case.
A single bench of Justice Samit Gopal allowed their applications seeking suspension of sentence and granted bail to both accused. The court, however, declined to stay their convictions.
Ten-Year Sentences Suspended
The order suspends the 10-year prison sentences imposed on Azam Khan and Abdullah Azam by the trial court. The High Court’s decision clears the way for their release, subject to completion of bail conditions and other legal formalities.
The trial court had convicted the father and son in the case relating to allegations that Abdullah Azam possessed two PAN cards. They had challenged the conviction and sentence before the Allahabad High Court.
Conviction Challenge Continues
While suspending the sentences, the High Court did not halt the effect of the convictions. This means the appeals against the trial court judgment will continue and the merits of the case remain to be decided.
The High Court had completed arguments in the matter on October 15 and reserved its order. The petitions sought suspension of sentence, bail and a stay on the conviction.
The High Court had completed arguments in the matter on October 15 and reserved its order. The petitions sought suspension of sentence, bail and a stay on the conviction.
Release Subject to Formalities
Azam Khan and Abdullah Azam are currently lodged in jail. Their release will depend on the furnishing of bail bonds and compliance with conditions prescribed by the court and the relevant prison authorities.
The ruling is being viewed as a significant development for the Samajwadi Party leader and his son, although it does not amount to an acquittal. The prosecution’s case and the defence appeal will now be examined in the continuing legal proceedings.
The ruling is being viewed as a significant development for the Samajwadi Party leader and his son, although it does not amount to an acquittal. The prosecution’s case and the defence appeal will now be examined in the continuing legal proceedings.