Kochi, Flagging instances of the accused getting bail because the investigating officer did not comply with pre-arrest formalities, the Kerala High Court on Thursday directed all criminal courts in the state to ensure compliance with pre-arrest formalities as stipulated in several Supreme Court judgments before considering remand applications. Kerala HC flags non-compliance of pre-arrest norms leading to release of accused The high court specifically directed that before ordering remand, the magistrate or judge should get an endorsement in the proceedings sheet stating that the pre-arrest formalities have been complied with and the accused has no objection in this regard. “In the event of non-compliance, the magistrate or the special judge … must ensure compliance of the formalities by the investigating officer and remand is to be considered only after ensuring compliance of the formalities,” Justice A Badharudeen said. The high court also said that if the magistrate or judge notes deliberate intention by the investigating officer or arresting officer to not comply with the formalities, they shall recommend disciplinary proceedings against such officers. The high …