MAPUSA
Former Mapusa Municipal Council councillor Tarak Arolkar was granted bail by the Mapusa JMFC court on Friday in a case involving allegations that he used a forged birth certificate to obtain an OBC caste certificate.
The JMFC court directed Arolkar to furnish a personal bond of Rs 25,000 and one local surety for the same amount. Arolkar was arrested on September 21 in Crime Branch case 90/2026, registered under Sections 420, 465, 467, 468 and 471 of the IPC and Section 66C of the Information Technology Act.
The prosecution opposed bail, arguing that the investigation was at a crucial stage and that the original birth certificate, the electronic device allegedly used to upload the documents, stamps, seals and other material were yet to be recovered. It also expressed apprehension that Arolkar could interfere with the investigation.
The court, however, noted that substantial documentary evidence was already with the investigating agency. The disputed birth certificate and records relating to its online submission had been obtained from the Deputy Collector and SDM, Mapusa. The certificate had also been scrutinised during an earlier Vigilance Cell inquiry.
The court held that the mere pendency of further recoveries could not justify continued detention, observing that the investigation could proceed even after Arolkar’s release, subject to appropriate conditions.
Arolkar has been directed not to tamper with evidence, influence witnesses or interfere with the investigation. He has also been directed to cooperate with the Investigating Officer and not leave India without the court’s permission.
