Guwahati, 29 May (HS): In a major development in the high-profile Zubeen murder case, the Gauhati High Court on Friday once again rejected the bail plea of prime accused Shyamkanu Mahanta. The order was passed by the court of Justice Mitali Thakuria.

This was the second time that the High Court turned down Mahanta’s bail application. The matter had come up for hearing for the third time amid intense public interest across Assam.

During the earlier hearing held on May 22, defence counsel Pran Bora had argued that Zubeen’s death was the result of an accidental incident and not a pre-planned murder. The defence had sought bail on that basis.

However, the prosecution strongly opposed the plea and placed its arguments before the court during Friday’s proceedings. Sources said Assam Advocate General Devajit Lon Saikia also appeared in connection with the case.

The Zubeen murder case has triggered widespread reactions across the state, with the High Court’s decision on the bail petition being closely watched by the public.----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash