O R D E R

This application seeking regular bail has been filed by the sole accused in Crime Crime No. 88/2026 of Kothamangalam Police Station, Ernakulam District registered alleging the commission of offences punishable under Sections 137 (2), 75(1)(i) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita , 2023 and Section 8 r/w Section 7 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act , 2012.

2. The prosecution allegation is that on 16.01.2026, at around 08:15 a.m, the accused kidnapped a minor girl aged 15 years from Kothamangalam Private bus stand and brought her to Bhoothathankettu Bhagam in a Scooter and on the way, he committed sexual assault by hugging and kissing her. Hence, the accused is alleged to have committed the offences as mentioned above.

3. Heard the learned counsel for the petitioner and the learned Senior Public Prosecutor.

4. The learned counsel for the petitioner submitted that the petitioner is totally innocent of the allegations levelled against him. According to the learned counsel, the petitioner and the victim girl are neighbours and relatives. The learned counsel further submitted that the petitioner got married recently and thereafter onwards, the victim's family has t