The Supreme Court on Tuesday granted interim bail to Unitech promoter Sanjay Chandra, who is in jail since August 2017 for allegedly siphoning off home buyers’ money, on “humanitarian grounds” as both his parents have tested positive for Covid-19.

A bench comprising Justices D.Y. Chandrachud and M.R. Shah directed that Chandra be released on interim bail for 30 days from the date of his actual release.

“Having heard counsel, we are of the view that a case for the grant of interim bail has been made out on humanitarian grounds as both the parents of the applicant (Chandra) have tested positive for Covid-19 and having regard to their advanced age.

“This order is being passed only on the basis of these facts and circumstances,” the bench noted in its order.

Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for the applicant, told the bench that Chandra’s parents are aged and his father (81) has been shifted in the ICU. Rohatgi said Chandra’s mother (78) is also hospitalised and interim bail should be granted.

“We accordingly direct that the applicant, Sanjay Chandra, shall be released on interim bail for a period of thirty days from the date of his actual release, subject to the following conditions,” the bench said.

It directed that Chandra’s passport be deposited with the trial court and he shall report to the nearest local police station every Sunday. The bench said Chandra shall furnish bail bond of Rs 1 lakh to the satisfaction of the trial court and surrender immediately on the expiry of 30-day period.