1. Leave granted.

2. This appeal challenges the order dated 24.04.2025 passed by the High Court of Chhattisgarh at Bilaspur in MCRCA No. 568/2025 for anticipatory bail under Section 482 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 ('BNSS').

3. This criminal appeal arises out of crime registered pursuant to FIR No.168 of 2025 dated 31.03.2025 lodged with PS Lawan, District Balodabazar-Bhatapara, registered under Sections 74, 75(1)(ii), 115(2), 296 and 351(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 ('BNS').

4. Anticipating arrest in connection with this crime, the appellant preferred Bail Application No. 279/2025 for anticipatory bail before the Additional Sessions Judge (F.T.C.) Balodabazar, C.G. Said application for anticipatory bail having been rejected by order dated 03.04.2025, the appellant preferred MCRCA No.568/2025 for anticipatory bail before the High Court of Chhattisgarh at Bilaspur. By impugned order dated 24.04.2025, the High Court rejected the plea for anticipatory bail. Therefore, the instant appeal has been preferred.

5. By order dated 04.08.2025, while issuing notice, this Court has granted interim protection in favour of the appellant.

6. We have heard learned counsel for the appellant in support of the appeal and learned counsel for the respondent-State.

7. Learned counsel for the appellant submitted that the offences alleged as against the appellant herein are wholly false and frivolous. The appellant is a journalist in the State of Chattisgarh who has been foisted with a false case; that this Court by order dated 04.08.2025 has granted interim protection; that the investigation is completed, charge sheet has been filed and the appellant has cooperated with the investigation and hence, the interim relief may be made absolute.

8. Per contra, learned counsel for the respondent-State with reference to his counter affidavit contended that there is no merit in this appeal and the High Court was justified in declining to grant anticipatory bail to the appellant herein. Hence, the appeal may be dismissed.

9. Considering the circumstances on record, in our view, the appellant is entitled to the relief of anticipatory bail claimed.

10. We, therefore, allow this appeal and set aside the order passed by the High Court of Chhattisgarh at Bilaspur dated 24.04.2025.

11. We direct that in the event of arrest of the appellant, the Arresting Officer shall release the appellant on bail, subject to furnishing cash security in the sum of Rs.25,000/- (Rupees Twenty-Five Thousand only) with two like sureties.

12. It is directed that the appellant shall extend complete cooperation in the ensuing trial.

13. The appellant shall not misuse his liberty and shall not in any way influence the witnesses or tamper with the material on record.

14. With the aforesaid directions, the criminal appeal is allowed.