The Bombay High Court denied bail to Pradeep Kurulkar, a former scientist at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), who was arrested by the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) in May 2023 for espionage. The court's decision was influenced by concerns that Kurulkar, who held a significant position as head of DRDO's Research and Development Establishment (Engineers), could influence witnesses or abscond. Justice Shivkumar G Dige noted that Kurulkar had maintained contact with a Pakistani intelligence officer for about a year and allegedly shared sensitive information regarding military operations and events, including the Aero India Show. The ATS had seized his electronic devices for forensic analysis, revealing constant communication with the officer. Kurulkar's defense argued that the investigation was complete and that he had no prior criminal record, but the state's attorney emphasized the risk of witness tampering and the serious nature of the allegations against him.