JUDGMENT

1. The instant bail application under Section 439 CrPC has been preferred by the petitioner Vikas S/o Indraj @ Indra Ram, who is in custody in connection with the F.I.R. No.154/2021 registered at the Police Station Hanumangarh Junction, District Hanumangarh for the offences under Sections 363, 366-A, 376(2)(n) IPC and Section 5(L)/6 of the POCSO Act, 2012.

2. Heard learned counsel for the petitioner and learned Public Prosecutor. Perused the material available on record.

3. The age of the victim is bordering 18 years. In her statements recorded during investigation under Section 161 as well as 164 CrPC, she categorically stated that she was deeply involved in a love affair with the present petitioner. Her family members wanted to marry her elsewhere and thus, she herself called the petitioner and went away with him. They contracted marriage in a temple, whereafter sexual relations were established between them with consent. Even in the statement under Section 164 CrPC, the girl stated that she wanted to continue her relationship with the present petitioner.

4. In this background and having regard to the entirety of the facts and circumstances of the case, I am inclined to gran