p. 1 IN THE HIGH COURT OF ORISSA AT CUTTACK BLAPL No. 1581 of 2023 Gourab Khaparade@Gourab Khapade …. Petitioner Represented by Mr.J.K. Panda, Advocate -Versus - State of Odisha …. Opposite Party Represented by Addl. Standing Counsel . CORAM: JUSTICE SASHIKANTA MISHRA ORDER 21.01.2025 1. This matter is taken up through hybrid mode. 2. Heard learned counsel for the petitioner and learned counsel for the State. 3. The petitioner’s application for bail was earlier rejected by this Court. He is in custody since 16.07.2021 in connection with Sohela P.S. Case No. 124 of 2021 corresponding to G.R. Case No. 46 of 2021 pending in the Court of learned Additional Sessions Judge, Padampur for the alleged commission of offence under Sections 20(b)(ii) (C)/29 of NDPS Act. 4. It is alleged that he was transporting contraband ganja weighing 233 kgs when he was apprehended by police. Since his earlier application for bail was rejected on merits and I don’t find any change in circumstances to warrant a different view being Order No. 7. p. 2 taken, the bail application stands rejected, more so as trial is in progress. The court below, is however, directed to conclude the trial as early as possible preferably, within a period of four months. It shall be open to the petitioner to renew his prayer, if trial is not concluded within the aforesaid period. (Sashikanta Mishra) Judge BC. Tudu