kolkata

IIE DIGITAL DESK : Kolkata, June 3, 2025 — The much-anticipated bail verdict in the case involving Sharmistha Panoli is set to be delivered on June 5, as per the order of the court on Monday. The judicial proceedings, which have attracted considerable attention in legal and political circles, saw a significant development when the court directed the state government to produce the case diary before it for review.

Sharmistha Panoli, who was arrested last month in connection with an alleged case of financial irregularities and criminal conspiracy, has moved a formal bail plea through her legal counsel. During the latest hearing, her defence team argued that the charges brought against her were baseless and politically motivated. They emphasized that Panoli has cooperated fully with the investigation and that there is no justification for her continued detention.

strongly opposed the bail application. Citing the seriousness of the charges, the public prosecutor argued that releasing Panoli at this stage could affect the integrity of the ongoing investigation. According to sources familiar with the case, the investigating team has already recovered several digital and physical documents believed to be linked to the alleged financial misconduct.

The court has instructed the state to present the complete case diary at the next hearing on June 5. This move is seen as crucial in determining the merit of the bail application. The judge noted that a thorough review of the case diary is necessary to assess whether the allegations against Panoli are substantiated by material evidence or not.

“The court needs to examine the entire case record carefully before deciding on the bail plea,” said a senior legal expert present in the courtroom. “Such directions are not unusual in high-profile or sensitive matters where the court seeks to avoid a hasty decision.”

Sharmistha Panoli, who has maintained her innocence since her arrest, was brought to the court under tight security. She reportedly appeared composed during the proceedings, with her legal team expressing confidence that the court will consider her clean record and lack of any prior criminal history in its verdict.

The case has also gained political traction, as Panoli is known to have links with influential figures across the political spectrum. Her arrest came amid a larger crackdown on alleged financial fraud cases, with the opposition alleging that the timing of her arrest indicates an attempt by the ruling establishment to silence dissenting voices.

Supporters of Panoli gathered in solidarity, holding placards demanding a fair trial and accusing the authorities of vendetta politics. “We believe she will get justice,” said one of her supporters. “She has been targeted without evidence.”

The ruling party has refrained from commenting directly on the case, stating that the matter is sub judice and that law enforcement is acting independently. “Let the courts decide. The administration is only doing its duty,” said a senior minister when asked about the controversy.

As the court prepares to deliver its verdict on June 5, all eyes will be on the contents of the case diary and the strength of the evidence it holds. The outcome is likely to have legal as well as political implications, particularly if the bail is granted or denied on grounds that challenge the legitimacy of the charges.