ARUN Vs. STATE OF KERALA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) This is an application for regular bail under Sec. 439 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 filed by the sole accused in Crime No. 251 of 2024 of Irinjalakuda Police Station, Thrissur, registered under Ss. 354, 354A(1)(i) of IPC and Sec. 8 r/w 7 of Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act and Sec. 3(1)(w)(i), 3(2)v(a) of SC/ST POA Amendment Act 2015.

(2.) The prosecution allegation is that, on 16/2/2024 at 07.30 pm, the petitioner outraged the modesty of the victim girl, aged 14 years, who belongs to scheduled caste, by holding her hand.

(3.) Since the offences alleged include offences under SC/ST POA Act also, notice was served on the victim girl through the SHO, Irinjalakuda police station. Though notice was served, none appeared for the victim.