PANAJI
The High Court of Bombay at Goa has overturned the bail granted to a rape accused by directing him to surrender in custody by July 10. The order comes in response to a criminal application filed by the victim alleging that the family of accused has been harassing her family ever since the Children’s Court released him on bail in March this year.
The maternal uncle, in his 20s, is charged with raping her after dropping her from school on January 20, 2023.
According to the prosecution, the alleged rapist threatened her with dire consequences if she disclosed the matter to anyone. The incident came to light when the victim confided in her teacher on the following day, who subsequently alerted her family. A complaint was registered and the accused was arrested on the same day. He was released on bail on March 2. The victim’s plea to cancel his bail was rejected by the Children’s Court prompting her to approach the High Court for relief.
After hearing the parties, the Bench of Justice MS Karnik has set aside the bail order while directing him to surrender in custody.
The accused is also granted liberty to file a fresh application for bail if there are changes in circumstances in which application shall be considered on its own merits and in accordance with the law.
Upon request from his lawyer, the Bench granted some time to surrender considering he did not misuse his liberty while on bail.
