Cuttack, Jan 13: The Orissa High Court on Tuesday granted interim relief to Somesh Satapathy and singer Arpita Choudhury in connection with the death case of well-known Odia singer Humane Sagar.

Hearing their anticipatory bail applications, the High Court ordered interim protection for both accused, directing that they shall not be arrested or taken into custody until the next hearing of the case. The court also instructed both applicants to cooperate fully with the investigating agency.

The High Court further directed the police to submit the case diary in the matter. The next hearing has been scheduled for February 16.

In addition, the court allowed Humane Sagar’s mother, Sephali Suna, to be impleaded as a party in the case.

Background of the Case
Humane Sagar’s mother had earlier lodged a complaint at the Markatnagar police station in Cuttack, demanding a thorough investigation into her son’s death and seeking clarity on the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Based on her complaint, the police registered a case naming nine individuals. Among those named were Humane's manager Somesh Satapathy and singer Arpita Choudhury, following which they approached the High Court seeking anticipatory bail.

Court Directions
The High Court made it clear that the interim protection granted to the two accused will remain in force until the next date of hearing. The court also emphasised that both must assist the investigation and comply with all directions issued by the investigating authorities.

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It can be mentioned here that popular Odia singer Humane Sagar, 36, passed away on November 17 at AIIMS Bhubaneswar. He had been battling alcohol-related liver cirrhosis, along with pneumonia and dilated cardiomyopathy.