Bombay High Court directed State of Maharashtra to modify LOC against Sangram Patil, permitting travel to United Kingdom after May 11, noting undertakings assuring cooperation with investigation.
The Bombay High Court directed the State of Maharashtra to modify a Look Out Circular (LOC) issued against Sangram Patil, thereby permitting him to travel back to the United Kingdom on or after May 11. The order was passed by a Single Judge Bench of Justice Ashwin D Bhobe, which took note of undertakings furnished by Patil and his parents assuring full cooperation with the ongoing investigation.
Background of the Case
The case originates from allegations that Patil had uploaded objectionable content targeting a political leader associated with the Bharatiya Janata Party. He was detained on January 10, 2026, shortly after his arrival at Mumbai airport, pursuant to the LOC issued against him. Challenging both the FIR and the LOC, Patil approached the High Court, maintaining that the allegations against him were unfounded.
During earlier proceedings on April 15, Advocate General Milind Sathe had informed the Court that the State would not oppose lifting the LOC if investigation-related reports were not furnished within three weeks. The Court thereafter admitted Patil’s plea and expressed concern over the prolonged restriction on his movement, particularly in light of his professional commitments abroad.
Submissions Before the Court
Appearing for Patil, Senior Advocate Rajiv Shakdher, along with Advocates Ujjwalkumar Chavhan and Aditya Hire, argued that Patil had effectively been confined under conditions akin to an “open-air jail.” It was submitted that continued restriction on his travel could seriously jeopardise his employment in the United Kingdom, where he has professional responsibilities, including attending to patients, as well as familial obligations.
Counsel further placed on record an undertaking by Patil stating:
“not evade or avoid the process of law and shall participate in the investigation proceedings in good faith and as required.”
Additionally, Patil clarified:
“travelling back to India requires reasonable prior intimation to enable compliance without compromising his professional duties and obligations.”
He also assured the Court that a notice period of 15 days would be sufficient for him to return to India whenever required for the investigation.
Court’s Order and Observations
The Court accepted these undertakings after the State indicated its satisfaction with the assurances provided. Advocate General Sathe submitted before the Bench:
“By virtue of this, he would be able to travel outside India and instructions will be issued to competent authorities on or before May 11.”
Taking this into account, the Court directed that the LOC be suitably modified to enable Patil’s travel to the UK while ensuring his continued cooperation with the investigation.
The High Court is scheduled to take up Patil’s main petition challenging the FIR and the LOC in June 2026. The order reflects a balancing of the individual’s right to travel and professional obligations with the need to ensure effective investigation in criminal proceedings.
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