Coram : R.N.Laddha, J.

Date : 23 June 2025.

P.C. :

By this application, the applicant seeks pre-arrest bail in connection with CR No.84 of 2025, registered at Sarkarwada Police Station, Nashik, for offences punishable under Sections 324 (5) and 308(4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita , 2023.

2. The complainant who has lived in Saraf Bazar since 2000 and shifted from running a general store to farming after his father’s death in 2023, alleges ongoing harassment by the applicant, who has criminal antecedents. On 15 March 2025, the applicant demanded Rs.1,00,000/- to allow the informant to continue residing in the area. When the demand was not met, the applicant assaulted informant’s son Atharva on 17 March 2025, vandalised their home, damaged their vehicles and issued death threats. The harassment, including extortion and threats, had been ongoing since the closure of the complainant’s shop. A police complaint was filed as the threats escalated.

3. Mr Raviraj Paramane, the learned Counsel appearing on behalf of the applicant, asserts the applicant’s innocence and contends that the applicant shares a cordial relationship with the informant’s son and nephew, as they are friends. On 17 March 2