The Karnataka High Court is set to hear former Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa's plea seeking the dismissal of charges related to alleged sexual assault against a minor today. Concurrently, the High Court will also consider his anticipatory bail plea.
Background on charges
Recently, the Karnataka Police filed a chargesheet against Yediyurappa under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses (POCSO) Act, 2012. The chargesheet, filed by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), includes allegations of sexual assault under Section 8 of the POCSO Act and Section 354A (sexual harassment) of the Indian Penal Code.
Legal maneuvers
Earlier this month, the Karnataka High Court had intervened, instructing the CID not to arrest Yediyurappa based on a warrant issued by a POCSO court, emphasising his prominent status. The case stems from a complaint lodged by the victim's mother in March, alleging an incident in February at Yediyurappa's residence.
Yediyurappa's response
Yediyurappa has vehemently denied the accusations, labeling them as baseless. He has pledged to contest the charges through legal channels. Tragically, the victim's mother, who initiated the case, passed away due to lung cancer last month.
The developments marked a critical juncture in the legal battle involving the senior BJP leader, whose political career spans decades in Karnataka.
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