Supreme Court Clubs 81 FIRs Against Developer, Grants Temporary Bail for Settlement
The Supreme Court has ordered the clubbing of 81 FIRs against real estate developer Alok Kumar into a single case, allowing for a six-month temporary bail to facilitate the settlement of claims with home buyers.
Supreme CourtFirsReal EstateHome BuyersSettlementReal EstateAug 16, 2025
The Bench of Justices J.B. Pardiwala and R. Mahadevan, applying the principle in Satinder Singh Bhasin v. State of U.P. (2023), observed that indefinite incarceration would not aid home buyers, and a practical approach was needed to facilitate the settlement of claims.
Alok Kumar and Agrani Homes face multiple criminal cases filed by home buyers alleging cheating and non-delivery of flats. The first FIR was lodged on January 11, 2018, at Shastri Nagar Police Station, Patna, under Sections 420 IPC and 138 NI Act. Over time, the number of FIRs increased to 81, with the total alleged liability pegged by the petitioner at ₹13.94 crore.
The Patna High Court, in February 2025, declined to club all FIRs, though it had earlier ordered a consolidated investigation for cases registered with the Economic Offences Unit. Kumar, in custody since October 2022, approached the Supreme Court seeking (i) clubbing of FIRs and (ii) bail.
The Bench of Justices J.B. Pardiwala and R. Mahadevan noted that keeping the petitioner in prolonged custody would not serve the home buyers' interests. Instead, a practical approach was necessary to facilitate settlements and the recovery of dues. Referring to Satinder Singh Bhasin v. State of U.P. (2023) 14 SCC 805, the Court reiterated that where multiple FIRs arise from the same transaction or series of connected acts, clubbing is permissible, with subsequent FIRs being treated as witness statements under Section 161 CrPC.
“Keeping the petitioner in jail for an indefinite period of time is not going to serve any good purpose, so far as the interest of the home buyers is concerned.” The court said.
The Court observed that Kumar had already deposited ₹4 crore with the Registry and had undertaken, along with his son, to settle the remaining ₹9.94 crore within six months. Affidavits detailing his and his companies' properties were also placed on record, with a direction not to alienate them without prior court permission.
Thus, the Supreme Court held that the FIRs shall be clubbed, treating the 2018 one as the main FIR with all other existing and future FIRs (on the same subject) treated as Section 161 CrPC statements. He is granted six-month temporary bail upon execution of a ₹5 lakh bond with one solvent surety, surrender of passport, fortnightly appearance before Shastri Nagar Police Station, and prohibition on transferring any immovable property without leave of the Court. The Supreme Court also ordered the petitioner to deposit ₹9.94 crore within six months, clarifying that the sum is not a full and final settlement and will be distributed among home buyers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Supreme Court club the FIRs?
The Supreme Court clubbed the FIRs to avoid multiplicity of proceedings and protect the larger interest of victims. This approach ensures a more efficient and fair resolution of the cases.
What is the total alleged liability in the case?
The total alleged liability in the case is ₹13.94 crore, as claimed by the home buyers against Alok Kumar and Agrani Homes.
What conditions were set for granting temporary bail?
The conditions for granting temporary bail include executing a ₹5 lakh bond with one solvent surety, surrendering the passport, making fortnightly appearances before the Shastri Nagar Police Station, and not transferring any immovable property without court permission.
How long is the temporary bail granted for?
The temporary bail is granted for six months to facilitate the settlement of claims with home buyers.
What is the next step for Alok Kumar and Agrani Homes?
Alok Kumar and Agrani Homes are required to deposit ₹9.94 crore within six months. This sum will be distributed among the home buyers, though it is not considered a full and final settlement.
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