Madras High Court

Madras HC: Housemaid Granted Bail in Minor's Death Case

Updated
Jan 29, 2026 7:33 PM
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Summary: Mageshwari, a housemaid accused in a serious case involving the death of a minor, has been granted bail by the High Court of Madras. The case involves multiple charges, including offenses under laws protecting children and those against discrimination.

The Case Background

The case revolves around a tragic incident that happened on November 1, 2024, in Chennai. A 16-year-old girl, working as a domestic help, was found dead with injuries. The police charged several people, including Mageshwari, who was working in the house as a maid.

Accusations and Charges

Mageshwari faced multiple charges, including:

  • A specific section of a law (Section 103(1) BNS)
  • Sections of a law protecting against discrimination (Section 3(2)(v)(vi) of the SC/ST Act)
  • A section of the law concerning the protection of children (Section 74 of the Juvenile Justice Act)

The accusations included her involvement in encouraging and helping to cause harm to the victim.

Previous Bail Attempts

Mageshwari's earlier attempts to get bail were unsuccessful. Her bail applications were turned down by the trial court, the High Court, and even the Supreme Court by September 22, 2025.

"The appellant is in custody from 02.11.2024," noted the court, emphasizing the lengthy detention period.

The Court's Decision

On January 28, 2026, Justice Sunder Mohan of the High Court of Madras granted Mageshwari bail. The court considered several factors, including:

  • The investigation was completed and charges were officially made.
  • Her role as a housemaid and the main provider for her family.
  • The lack of direct eyewitnesses and reliance on electronic evidence.

Conditions of Bail

Mageshwari's bail came with strict conditions:

  • She must pay a bond of Rs.10,000 with two people to vouch for her.
  • Report to the trial court every Monday.
  • Must not mess with evidence or run away.

Legal Perspectives

The court highlighted the importance of considering the long time Mageshwari had been in jail and her role in the situation. The judgment also pointed out that electronic records, which are part of the evidence, cannot be tampered with by Mageshwari.

Summary of the Verdict

Mageshwari was granted bail due to the completion of the investigation, her role as the main provider for her family, and the lack of direct eyewitnesses. However, she must follow strict conditions while out on bail. The case will continue as the trial goes on in Chennai.

Tags:
Bail
Child Protection
Discrimination