The Bombay High Court on Wednesday rejected the bail plea of retired Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) scientist Pradeep Kurulkar, who was arrested last year for allegedly leaking sensitive defense information to a Pakistani intelligence operative. The court observed that the accused, despite holding a high-ranking position, engaged in prolonged “intimate chats” with a foreign operative and shared vital information that could compromise national security.
Pradeep Kurulkar, 60, was the Director (Research and Development) at a DRDO facility when he was arrested by the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) on May 3, 2023. The arrest followed a complaint from the defense research establishment itself, alleging that the scientist had fallen victim to a “honey-trap” orchestrated by a woman linked to Pakistani intelligence agencies.
According to the ATS, Kurulkar maintained contact with the operative for over a year. During this period, investigators reportedly recovered “explosive” chats suggesting that the scientist discussed strategic defense systems and confidential details to cultivate a personal relationship with the woman.
The prosecution vehemently opposed the bail application, arguing that the nature of the information shared was highly sensitive and involved strategic defense interests. They contended that the conversations were not merely social but involved the transmission of data that is not available to the general public.
In his defense, Kurulkar claimed that the information he is alleged to have shared was already in the public domain and did not constitute a breach of the Official Secrets Act. He sought bail on the grounds that the investigation was complete and he was no longer in a position to access DRDO data.
A single-judge bench of Justice S G Dige dismissed the scientist’s contentions. The court noted that the duration and nature of the interaction were particularly concerning. The bench observed:
“The applicant, despite holding a senior post in the DRDO, continued intimate chats with a Pakistan-based officer for more than a year and passed over vital information.”
Addressing the defense’s argument regarding his retirement, the court highlighted the risk Kurulkar posed to the ongoing trial. Justice Dige stated that while Kurulkar has retired, many of the potential witnesses in the case were his former subordinates. The court expressed apprehension that, given his previous seniority, he might exercise undue influence over these witnesses.
Furthermore, the court noted a flight risk, stating there remains a possibility that the accused might abscond if released on bail.
Finding no merit in the bail application and emphasizing the gravity of the charges involving national security, the Bombay High Court denied the plea. Kurulkar will remain in judicial custody as the legal proceedings against him continue.
