Introduction:

The Kerala High Court recently granted bail to a restaurant chef accused of preparing shawarma that allegedly caused physical ailments to a woman, leading to hospitalization. The case involves charges under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) related to negligent conduct with respect to poisonous substances and attempt to commit culpable homicide.

Arguments:

The accused chef, represented by Advocate Ameer K M, argued that the restaurant had been operating for over eight years without any prior complaints regarding the shawarma. It was emphasized that shawarma must be consumed within two hours of preparation, and there was no evidence linking the consumed shawarma to the restaurant in question. Public Prosecutor Vipin Narayanan represented the respondents.

Court’s Judgment:

Justice C. Pratheep Kumar granted bail to the accused, considering that he had been in judicial custody since April 19, 2024. The court also noted that the owner of the hotel, who was the first accused, had been granted anticipatory bail. Despite the seriousness of the allegations, the court found merit in granting bail to the chef.