The Supreme Court on Monday granted interim bail to senior journalist Mahesh Langa, who has been in custody in connection with a financial case linked to alleged tax irregularities.
Langa was arrested last year by Gujarat Police over allegations related to Goods and Services Tax issues. Following this, the central probe agency also opened a separate case against him, leading to his continued detention.
While granting temporary bail, the court placed clear restrictions on Langa, directing that he must not write or publish any article related to the allegations against him. The bench also instructed that the ongoing trial be conducted without delays, as only nine witnesses remain to be examined.
The court made it clear that Langa must fully cooperate with the proceedings and should not seek postponements. It further asked the investigating agency to submit a report confirming that these directions are being followed. The matter is scheduled to be reviewed again on January 6, 2026.
During the hearing, senior advocate Kapil Sibal appeared on behalf of Langa and argued that the accusations were exaggerated and unsupported by key documents. He questioned the prolonged custody, stating that no formal charges have been filed in the original case that led to the money related investigation. Sibal also claimed that important documents were not shared with the defence.
Opposing the bail, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta alleged that Langa had misused his position as a journalist to demand money, claiming threats of negative coverage if payments were not made.
Sibal strongly denied the allegation, countering that journalists were being unfairly targeted. This led to a brief exchange between the two senior lawyers, with the court stepping in to stress that the trial should proceed quickly and without misuse of influence.
The Chief Justice remarked that Langa should not misuse his professional standing, to which Sibal responded that any violation could lead to bail being cancelled.
Earlier, the Gujarat High Court had refused bail to Langa on July 31, keeping him in custody until the Supreme Court&rsquo;s interim relief.

Top court grants interim bail to journalist Langa

Mahesh Langa gets temporary relief as court pushes for fast trial in financial case

Top court grants interim bail to journalist Langa

Mahesh Langa gets temporary relief as court pushes for fast trial in financial case

December 15, 2025 | 20:57 IST