XXXXXXXXXX Vs. STATE OF KERALA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) The application is filed under Sec. 439 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 (for short 'the Code') by the sole accused in Crime No.57 of 2024 of the Pudur Police Station, Palakkad, which is registered against him for allegedly committing the offences punishable under Ss. 354A(1)(i) of the Indian Penal Code, 1860 and Sec. 8 read with Sec. 7 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012 (for short 'POCSO Act'). The petitioner was arrested on 1/6/2024.

(2.) The gist of the prosecution case is that : in the month of May, 2024, at midnight, the accused with a sexual intention to commit sexual assault on the minor victim, the girl aged 10 years, groped her breasts and touched on her private areas. He also made the victim sit on his lap. Thus, the accused has committed the above offences.

(3.) Heard; Sri.Nireesh Mathew, the learned counsel appearing for the petitioner and Smt.Seetha S, the learned Public Prosecutor.