Former government pleader accused of sexual assault granted bail by Kerala High Court
A former government pleader named P.G. Manu, who was accused of sexually assaulting a woman client, was granted bail by the Kerala High Court on Friday, March 22.
Reasons for Bail:
The petitioner had been in judicial custody since his arrest on January 31, 2024. With the investigation completed and the final report filed, his continued detention was deemed unnecessary for further investigation, as pointed out by the petitioner’s counsel.
Observations by Justice Sophy Thomas:
While granting bail, Justice Sophy Thomas noted the seriousness of the case, where the petitioner took advantage of a vulnerable woman seeking help to settle a case in which she was the victim. The court acknowledged the petitioner’s senior position as a government pleader and his unethical behavior towards the victim.
Allegations:
The allegations against the petitioner included sexual exploitation and rape of the victim, along with sending obscene videos to her. Despite these serious accusations, the court considered the completion of the investigation and filing of the final report in granting bail.
Bail Conditions:
The court imposed stringent conditions for bail, including:
– The petitioner must not enter the Chottanikkara police station except for reporting to the investigating officer until the trial is concluded.
– He is not allowed to leave Kerala without the court’s permission.
– The petitioner must report to the investigating officer on the first Saturday of every month at 3 p.m.
– He is prohibited from contacting the victim or her family members, or harassing them in any way.
