Thangapandi vs Inspector Of Police

G.Ilangovan, J

The petitioner/sole accused, who was arrested and remanded to judicial custody on 13.04.2023 for the offence punishable under Sections 5(l) r/w. 6 of <li>Protection Of Children From Sexual Offences Act, 2012 &mdash; Section</li> Act, 2012 in crime No.60 of 2023 on the file of the respondent police, seeks bail.

2.This is the second petition for bail. The earlier petition was dismissed by this Court on 14.06.2023, considering the grievous allegation made against the petitioner. Now, seeking bail this petition has been filed, since he is ready to marry the victim.

3.The learned Additional Public prosecutor would submit that as per the statement of the victim, she has discontinued her studies and stayed at home. At that time, she has developed an affair with the petitioner. When the same was came to the knowledge of the victim’s parents, they arranged marriage with some other person. Therefore, the victim eloped with the petitioner and went to several places. The petitioner had committed sexual assault against the victim. In this case, charge sheet has been filed before the concerned Court and the same was not taken on file. Hence, prays to dismiss the petition.

4.Heard the learned counsel appearing on either side and perused the materials placed before this Court.

5.Perusal of records reveal that during the course of investigation as per medical examination of victim her hymen was not found intact. On that basis, the complaint has been registered agaisnt the petitioner. Though the petitioner is ready to marry the victim, she is aged about 16 years, the marriage is not possible in near future.

6.Considering the above facts and circumstances of the case, vehement objection raised by the learned Additional Public Prosecutor, this Court is of the view that if he is released on bail then he may abscond and hamper the trial. This Court is not inclined to grant bail to the petitioner, though this is the second petition for bail.

7.Accordingly, this Criminal Original Petition stands dismissed.

Considering the readiness of the petitioner to marry the victim, he can revive his bail petition, after examination of PW1.