A court in Thane, Maharashtra, has acquitted a 25-year-old man accused of stalking and harassing a 15-year-old girl, after the prosecution failed to establish the crucial element of 'sexual intent' in his actions. The verdict, delivered recently, brings closure to a case dating back to 2019.
The Incident and Allegations
The case centred around an incident in 2019 in Thane city. The accused, identified as Mayuresh Kailas Shelke, a labourer by profession, allegedly entered the residence of the teenage victim. According to the charges, he professed his love for the girl during this encounter, which led to a case being registered against him.
The charges invoked sections of the law pertaining to stalking and harassment. The prosecution argued that his act of entering the home and declaring his feelings constituted intimidation and an invasion of privacy, causing alarm and distress to the minor girl and her family.
Court's Reasoning for Acquittal
After examining the evidence and testimonies presented, the presiding judge found the evidence insufficient to secure a conviction. The cornerstone of the court's decision was the finding that the prosecution could not prove sexual intent behind Shelke's actions.
While the act of entering the home uninvited and making a declaration was not condoned, the court concluded that the necessary criminal intent required under the specific charges was not established beyond reasonable doubt. The judgement highlighted the legal distinction between inappropriate behaviour and the specific criminal offence with its defined prerequisites.
Legal Implications and Outcome
The acquittal underscores the high burden of proof required in criminal cases, where intent plays a pivotal role. The court's ruling means that Mayuresh Kailas Shelke has been cleared of the stalking and harassment charges levied against him.
The case highlights the complexities involved in trying cases of alleged harassment, where legal interpretations of intent and action are critically examined. The verdict, dated for publication in early January 2026, brings a legal resolution to an incident that occurred several years prior.
