MANOJ SINGH Vs. STATE OF KARNATAKA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) This petition is filed by the sole accused under Sec. 483 of BNSS praying to grant bail in Crime No.24/2025 of Harohalli Police Station registered for offences under Ss. 9(m), 9(n), 9(p), 10, 12 of POCSO Act and Sec. 75(1) of BNS, pending in Special Case No.61/2025 on the file of I Additional District and Special Judge, Ramanagara.

(2.) Heard learned counsel for the petitioner and learned HCGP for Respondent No.1/State. Inspite of service of notice Respondent No.2 remained absent and unrepresented.

(3.) Learned counsel for the petitioner would contend that the offence alleged against the petitioner under Ss. 10 and 12 of POCSO Act are not punishable either with death or imprisonment for life. The maximum sentence that can be imposed for the offence under Sec. 10 is 7 years and under Sec. 12 is 3 years. The petitioner is in judicial custody since 22/1/2025 and as the charge sheet is filed he is not required for further custodial interrogation. CW.4 who came to the spot on hearing the screaming sound of the victim to the house of victim, has not disclosed about the incident to him. The petitioner undertakes to appear before the trial Court on all dates of hearing. There are no criminal antecedents of the petitioner. With this, he prayed to allow the petition.