ISSUE:
Whether the sureties remain liable under the bail bond when the accused absconds?
Whether the modification of bail conditions without notice to the sureties affects their liability?
RULE:
The obligation of the surety is to ensure the attendance of the accused in court, and this core requirement remains unchanged despite any modification in bail conditions. A surety remains bound by the bond unless formally discharged by the court under Section 444(1) CrPC.
A modification of bail conditions does not automatically discharge the surety’s liability. If the surety does not agree with the modification, they must seek discharge from the court. Otherwise, their liability continues under the original terms.