Delhi HC denies bail to man accused of leaking Army secrets to Pakistan

The Delhi High Court has denied bail to Mohsin Khan, a scrap dealer accused of being part of an espionage ring that allegedly transmitted sensitive Indian Army information to Pakistan’s intelligence network. The court said the case concerns national integrity and security, which must override arguments of prolonged custody or routine commercial transactions.

Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma said, “This offence is not merely against an individual or institution but strikes at the core of Bharat’s sovereignty and security.” The court emphasized that acts of espionage have far-reaching implications and require stricter bail scrutiny, especially when linked to national defence.

Authorities claim Khan acted as a financial conduit for Pakistani intelligence via an officer at the Pakistani High Commission and facilitated the sharing of Army data obtained from an Army personnel posted in Pokhran. Although Khan’s lawyer argued that his actions—like recharging phones and money transfers—were commercial and not conspiratorial, the court ruled that the seriousness of the charges outweighed such claims.

The court acknowledged that Khan had been in custody for nearly four years but stated that “time served” cannot override the gravity of the alleged offences. Justice Sharma also praised the armed forces, stating that national safety depends on their constant vigilance. The High Court has asked the trial court to expedite the proceedings in the interest of justice.