The Punjab and Haryana High Court has permitted former Punjab Police DSP Raka Gera to travel abroad for a month, despite being convicted in a serious corruption case. The court imposed strict conditions to ensure his timely return to India.
Raka Gera is allowed to visit Spain, Switzerland, and the Czech Republic from April 10 to May 10. The court emphasized that the right to travel abroad is a fundamental human right that cannot be unduly restricted under proper circumstances.
The CBI opposed the petition, expressing concerns that the convict might not return. However, the court noted his prior compliance, as he had been permitted foreign travel in 2016 and 2019 and returned on time both times.
Raka Gera was convicted in 2024 in connection with a 2011 bribery case, where a Special CBI Court in Chandigarh sentenced him to six years imprisonment and a fine of ₹1 lakh for accepting a bribe. He requested permission to travel abroad during the pendency of his appeal.
Conditions Imposed by the Court
- Submit a ₹40 lakh bond, including ₹30 lakh as family surety and ₹10 lakh as a bank guarantee.
- Return to India within the specified period and comply with all legal requirements.
The court stressed that the permission is conditional and Raka Gera must adhere to the strict terms to avoid legal consequences.
