Allahabad High Court Grants Short-Term Bail to Anuj Tiwari for UP Homeguard Physical

In a notable decision, the Allahabad High Court (Lucknow Bench) has granted short-term bail to an accused facing serious charges including attempt to murder, allowing him to participate in the physical test for Uttar Pradesh Homeguard recruitment. The order was passed by Justice Rajeev Bharti on September 14, 2026.

A Chance to Compete: Court Allows Accused to Appear for Physical Test

The applicant, Anuj Kumar Tiwari @ Golu, has been lodged in District Jail, Raebareli since May 10, 2026, in connection with Case Crime No.66 of 2026. The case involves multiple charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Sections 191(3) (attempt to murder), 115(2) (rioting), 352, 351(3), 333, 109, and 110. Despite the gravity of the allegations, Tiwari sought short-term bail to attend the physical test for UP Homeguard vacancies, scheduled for September 16, 2026, at Sports College, Nevlapur, Fatehpur.

His counsel argued that the physical test was a crucial opportunity and produced the admit card as evidence. The State, represented by the Government Advocate, opposed the application, highlighting the serious nature of the offenses. However, the State did not dispute the fact that the physical test was scheduled.

Strict Conditions: Police Custody and Escort

The High Court, after considering the circumstances, found it appropriate to permit Tiwari to attend the test. However, the court imposed stringent conditions to ensure security. The order specifies that the applicant shall be released on short-term bail on September 16, 2026, from 4:30 AM to 6:00 PM, but only in police custody.

The court directed the Superintendent of Police, Raebareli, to release Tiwari from jail at 4:30 AM in the custody of two police constables. These constables will escort him throughout the period, keeping a watch on his activities. The applicant will be permitted to attend the physical test as scheduled, and the police personnel will ensure his safe return to jail by 6:00 PM the same day.

Court's Order: One-Day Bail for Recruitment Test

Justice Bharti's order is clear and detailed: "Keeping in view the aforesaid facts and circumstances of the case, this Court finds it appropriate to permit the present applicant to attend the physical test, which is scheduled for 16.09.2026." The court further directed that the applicant be released in police custody and that the Superintendent of Police, Raebareli, take necessary steps to depute two police personnel to accompany him.

The court also mandated that the registry serve a copy of the order to both the Superintendent of Police and the Superintendent of Jail, Raebareli, within 24 hours for compliance. The short-term bail application was disposed of in these terms.

This decision highlights the judiciary's willingness to balance an accused's right to pursue employment opportunities with the need for security and supervision in serious criminal cases. It also underscores that even those facing grave charges may be granted limited relief for specific, verifiable purposes.