(1.) The conviction and sentence imposed against the appellant, who is the sole accused in SC No. 154 of 2010 on the les of the Sessions Court, Kalpetta, are under challenge in this appeal at the instance of the accused. The state of Kerala is the respondent.
(2.) Heard the learned counsel for the appellant/accused and the learned Public Prosecutor in detail. Perused the judgment as well as the trial court records.
(3.) The prosecution case is that, at about 11.00 am on 16/3/2010, the accused wrongfully restrained PW5, the minor daughter of PW1, by tying her to a coee plant at Manthamkolly in Sulthan Bathery. Further, the accused criminally intimidated the victim with fear of death and also sexually molested her. Accordingly, investigation was initiated, alleging commission of oences punishable under Ss. 341, 506(ii), and 511 read with 376 of the IPC, by the accused. On completion of the investigation, nal report was led, and the learned Sessions Court framed charge for the said oences and proceeded with the trial.