Can't be kept in custody beyond Feb 1: SC's bail instruction on Partha

The Supreme Court granted bail to Partha Chatterjee, ex-West Bengal education minister, in the cash-for-jobs scandal. He can be released by February 1st, pending trial court proceedings including framing of charges and recording key witness statements. The court acknowledged a prima facie case but stressed his undertrial status, restricting him from public office except MLA upon release.