Judge Booked for Rs 14.35 Lakh Bail Fund Misuse

Published by Aloto Naga | June 28, 2025

DIMAPUR, June 28, 2025 — Former Principal District and Sessions Judge of Dimapur, Inalo Zhimomi, is under criminal investigation over the alleged misappropriation of ₹14.35 lakh collected as bail deposits in 2024. The funds, collected across nearly 30 criminal cases, were reportedly not submitted to the state treasury as required.

Timeline of Events

2024: Bail funds collected but allegedly not deposited

Early 2025: Successor judge audits records and finds discrepancies

March 2025: FIR registered following official complaint

March 25, 2025: Zhimomi compulsorily retired from service

May 29, 2025: High Court denies anticipatory bail

June 17, 2025: Supreme Court grants anticipatory bail

Charges Filed

Zhimomi has been booked under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS):

• Section 316(4)/(5): Criminal breach of trust
• Section 337: Forgery of court records
• Section 3(5): Criminal conspiracy

How It Was Discovered

In early 2025, the new Principal District Judge of Dimapur uncovered the irregularities while reviewing cash registers on directive from the Gauhati High Court. The records showed funds marked as collected but with no matching treasury deposits. A formal letter from the successor judge led to the registration of an FIR.

Why It Matters

Legal experts say the case is a significant example of why financial oversight is critical in the judiciary. The successor’s decision to report the discrepancy transparently has received praise from both legal institutions and administrative observers. The case has spurred calls for a system-wide audit of court finances.

What Happens Next

Although Zhimomi is currently protected by anticipatory bail, legal proceedings and departmental inquiries are ongoing. The judiciary in Nagaland is expected to adopt stricter financial protocols and enhance transparency in court transactions.

Fact Check Summary