XXXXXXXXXX Vs. STATE OF KERALA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) This is an application for regular bail.

(2.) The petitioner is the first accused in Crime No.802 of 2023 of Nedumkandam Police Station, Idukki, alleging commission of offences under Ss. 354, 354-A(1)(i) of the Indian Penal Code, 1860 and under Ss. 7 and 8 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act.

(3.) The allegation against the petitioner is that the petitioner, who is the husband of the victim's paternal aunt, had sexually abused her at a time when she was studying in the 7th standard. The incident allegedly took place about three years ago. The allegation is that the petitioner had pressed the thighs of the minor victim as also her breast and therefore, he committed the offences alleged against him.