JOSHY Vs. STATE OF KERALA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) This is an application seeking regular bail filed under Section 439 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973.

(2.) Petitioner is the accused in Crime No.1431/2022 of Central Police Station, Ernakulam, alleging offences punishable under Sections 354, 354A(1)(i), 376(2) and 376(2)(n) of the Indian Penal Code, 1860 apart from Sections 4(1), 3(a), 6(1), 5(1) and Section 12 r/w Section 11(iv) of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012.

(3.) According to the prosecution, the accused who was the owner of a lodge in Ernakulam, had, from 29.06.2022 till 01.07.2022 committed penetrative sexual assault on the minor victim after seducing her with money and thereby committed the offences alleged.