(1.) This is an appeal filed under Sec. 14-A of the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 (hereinafter referred to as 'the Act' for convenience). The appellant herein is the sole accused in Crime No.107 of 2022 of Kareelakulangara Police Station. The respondent is the State of Kerala represented by the learned Public Prosecutor as well as the defacto complainant.
(2.) Though notice was served to the defacto complainant through the Investigating Officer, as mandated under Sec. 15A(3) of the 'Act' has been served upon the defacto complainant, he did not turn up for hearing.
(3.) Heard the learned counsel for the appellant/accused as well as the learned Public Prosecutor representing the State of Kerala.