Shimla, April 24,
The Himachal Pradesh High Court has granted regular bail to Congress Sewa Dal spokesperson Yudh Chand Bains and his son Harish in the high-profile Kangra Cooperative Bank (KCC) loan case. Justice Rakesh Kainthla confirmed the interim protection earlier extended to the accused, marking a legal reprieve in a matter that has stirred considerable political controversy.
The case pertains to the alleged misappropriation of Rs. 20 crore in loans sanctioned by KCC Bank for a hotel project. Bains, a prominent political figure from Mandi district and known loyalist of former Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh, has consistently claimed that the case is a result of political vendetta. During interrogation, he made unverified allegations against current Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, asserting that the CM had attempted to appropriate his land in exchange for political favors.
The prosecution, while opposing the bail, informed the court that it possessed additional documentary evidence suggesting misuse of the sanctioned loan amount in alleged collusion with bank officials, in violation of the loan conditions. It argued that custodial interrogation was still necessary for a thorough investigation. However, the defence counsel maintained that the case lacked elements of a criminal offence and was being misused to target Bains politically.
Legal observers noted that the bail decision appears to rest on procedural grounds rather than a determination on the merits of the case. The court imposed standard conditions on the bail, including restrictions on travel and a directive for continued cooperation with the investigation.
The ruling has amplified internal rifts within the state Congress, with Bains’ supporters interpreting the court’s decision as a vindication, while government representatives maintain the strength of their case. Political analysts warn that this development may further destabilize the already fractured party apparatus, particularly as the state prepares for upcoming electoral challenges.
With the Vigilance Department expected to file its chargesheet soon, the case remains a focal point in the evolving political landscape of Himachal Pradesh, raising questions about potential implications for the Sukhu-led administration.
