Delhi HC Grants Anticipatory Bail To Man Accused Of Sexually Assaulting Minor

Delhi High Court

The Delhi High Court has granted anticipatory bail to a man accused of sexually assaulting a minor, highlighting inconsistencies in the complainant’s statements and a lack of supporting forensic evidence.

Case Background

According to the First Information Report (FIR), the minor girl initially alleged that she was sexually assaulted by her father in September 2023. However, in October 2023, her mother informed the police that the girl had revised her statement, now accusing a neighborhood barber of the assault. The accused was not named in the original FIR.

The defense argued that the accusations were fabricated and influenced by the girl’s mother. They also pointed out that forensic analysis did not yield any male DNA profiles from the samples collected, undermining the prosecution’s case.

The prosecution contended that the accused was not named initially due to threats he allegedly made against the minor. They also noted that the girl had delayed reporting the incident out of fear.

Justice Girish Kathpalia, while granting bail, observed that the case was “not an ordinary one” and emphasized the discrepancies in the victim’s statements and the absence of forensic evidence. The court directed that the accused be released on furnishing a personal bond and surety of ₹30,000 each. Additionally, the accused is prohibited from contacting or intimidating the victim and her family and must cooperate with the ongoing investigation.

This decision underscores the court’s approach to evaluating the credibility of allegations and the importance of corroborative evidence in cases involving serious charges.