Gujarat HC Grants Bail to Former MLA Nalin Kotadiya in Bitcoin Case

Relief from High Court

The Gujarat High Court has granted significant relief to former BJP MLA Nalin Kotadiya, who was serving a sentence in the high‑profile Bitcoin extortion and kidnapping case of Surat. On January 8, the court stayed his sentence and ordered his release on a personal bond of ₹50,000 along with a bail of the same amount.

Background of the Case

The Bitcoin case, one of the most widely discussed financial crime cases in Gujarat, involved allegations of extortion and kidnapping linked to cryptocurrency transactions. A total of 14 accused, including Kotadiya and the then Superintendent of Police, were convicted by the Special ACB Court of the Prevention of Corruption Bureau.

Earlier Conviction

In its earlier ruling, the ACB Court had sentenced all 14 accused to life imprisonment, citing their involvement in the conspiracy. However, appeals against the life sentences were already pending before the High Court. Kotadiya’s bail marks the first major relief granted in the ongoing appellate proceedings.

Conditional Bail

The High Court clarified that Kotadiya’s release is conditional, tied to the execution of the personal bond and bail amount. The stay on his sentence does not amount to acquittal but provides temporary relief until the appeal is fully adjudicated.

Wider Implications

The case has drawn attention for its intersection of cryptocurrency, law enforcement, and political figures. Kotadiya’s bail is expected to influence the trajectory of the appeals process for the other accused. Legal experts note that the High Court’s decision underscores the principle of granting relief during prolonged appeals, especially in complex financial crime cases.