Sukhram's bail plea rejected amidst serious allegations of human trafficking and sexual assault of a minor.
In a significant ruling, the Delhi High Court, presided by Justice Manoj Jain, dismissed the anticipatory bail application of Sukhram, accused in a grievous case involving human trafficking and sexual assault of a minor. The case stems from allegations that Sukhram, along with co-accused, was involved in purchasing a minor victim for Rs. 30,000 and coercing her into marriage.
The victim, reportedly 17 years old, provided a detailed statement under Section 183 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, recounting her harrowing ordeal. She alleged that the co-accused, Usman and Chand, sexually assaulted her before selling her to Sukhram. The victim was subsequently forced into marriage with an older man but managed to escape and return to her family.
The FIR, initiated by the victim's maternal uncle, led to the arrest of Chand and Usman, while another accused, Ravinder, is out on bail due to lack of direct allegations of sexual assault against him. However, the applicant Sukhram's role in the crime necessitated custodial interrogation, given the serious nature of the offenses.
Justice Jain emphasized the gravity of the allegations, noting that they pointed towards a potential case of human trafficking. Despite the defense's arguments, the court found no merit in the bail application and underscored the importance of thorough investigation through custodial interrogation. The dismissal underscores the judiciary's stringent approach towards crimes of such a severe nature, particularly those involving minors.
Bottom Line:
Anticipatory bail application dismissed in a case involving serious allegations of human trafficking and sexual assault against the applicant. Custodial interrogation deemed necessary given the nature of the allegations.
Statutory provision(s): Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 Section 137(2), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 Section 183.
Sukhram v. State of Delhi, (Delhi) : Law Finder Doc id # 2962899
