The Kerala High Court has dismissed the bail petition filed by Rajan Babu, also known as Murari Thantri, who was arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting a minor girl under the pretext of performing an exorcism.
Court Ruling
A bench of Justice Kauser Edappagath dismissed the petition, observing that despite the final report having already been filed, the seriousness of the allegations prevented the High Court from granting bail to the accused. The court noted that the allegations against the accused were extremely serious and prima facie disclosed a premeditated criminal act on his part.
Background of the Case
Murari Thantri, a native of Vendar in Puthur, Kollam, was arrested on February 8 by Puthur police following a complaint lodged by the mother of the minor girl. The mother and her 16-year-old daughter had earlier approached Babu for astrological guidance. He allegedly told them that the girl was possessed by an evil spirit and that this was the reason for their problems. He further claimed that he could remove the evil spirit through an exorcism ritual.
Incident Details
On February 8, the mother and daughter visited his residence at Vendar to perform the prescribed rituals. Babu reportedly asked the mother to remain outside the room before taking the girl inside alone, where he allegedly committed the offence. Based on the mother's complaint, police registered a case against Babu under various provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and arrested him.
Court's Observation
While considering the bail petition, the High Court observed, upon perusing the case diary, that the allegations against the accused were extremely serious and prima facie disclosed a premeditated criminal act on his part. Accordingly, the court dismissed the petition.
