Courts Must Consider Social Realities, Adopt Pragmatic Approach While Considering Accused's Plea To Travel Abroad: P&H High Court

The Punjab & Haryana High Court directed that while deciding an accused’s request to travel abroad during trial, courts must adopt a pragmatic and balanced approach. It emphasized evaluating factors such as gravity of offence, risk of absconding, duration of travel, and necessity for personal or professional reasons. The judgment cautioned against mechanical denials, suggesting safeguards like bonds or undertakings can ensure return. The decision aligns with the constitutional guarantee of personal liberty and seeks a humane, case-specific assessment rather than a rigid bar on travel permissions for accused persons.