In a recent development, the Kerala High Court granted bail to a man accused of sexually assaulting his minor daughter. The court, while acknowledging that it cannot draw conclusions on the merits of the case, considered the completion of the investigation and the filing of the final report as factors justifying the grant of bail. The petitioner had been accused of multiple instances of sexual abuse by his minor daughter, who had initially refrained from disclosing the incidents due to fear.

The petitioner countered the allegations, asserting that they stemmed from his objection, along with his wife, to their daughter’s fascination with the Korean Pop Band ‘BTS,’ which they deemed as un-Islamic. According to the petitioner, the false accusations arose after he denied his daughter permission to go on a school trip, with the aunt allegedly instigating the victim to make the allegations. The prosecution opposed bail, emphasizing the seriousness of the charges and disputing the petitioner’s claims.

Considering the circumstances, including the minor victim’s current custody under her aunt, the court granted bail to the petitioner. However, stringent conditions were imposed to prevent any contact between the petitioner and the victim. This decision underscores the court’s evaluation of the completed investigation and the perceived lack of necessity for the continued detention of the accused during the legal proceedings. BAIL APPL. NO. 11198 OF