Kerala High Court Dismisses POCSO Case Following Marriage of Accused to Minor Victim
In a significant ruling, the Kerala High Court has quashed a case registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act against a 23-year-old man from Thiruvananthapuram. The court's decision came after considering that the accused later married the minor girl involved in the alleged incident, and the couple is now reportedly leading a contented married life.
Background of the Case and Judicial Proceedings
The bench of Justice C Pratheep Kumar passed this order while allowing a petition filed by the accused, who sought to quash the case registered against him at the Pathanamthitta police station. According to the prosecution, the accused had developed a friendship with the de facto complainant, who was a minor at the time. On June 9, 2025, he allegedly took her from her home to his residence, where the sexual assault is said to have occurred.
The accused approached the court with a plea to dismiss the proceedings, highlighting that he married the de facto complainant on October 2, 2025. This marriage took place four months after the alleged incident, following her attainment of majority. In support of his petition, an affidavit sworn by the de facto complainant was presented before the court. This affidavit endorsed the statements made by the petitioner and explicitly prayed for the quashing of the case, emphasizing their current harmonious relationship.
Court's Rationale and Reference to Precedents
While deliberating on the petition, the bench meticulously examined earlier decisions from both the Kerala High Court and the Supreme Court in analogous cases. These judicial precedents observed that unless such criminal proceedings are terminated, the lives of the victim, the accused, and any child born from their relationship could be severely and adversely affected. The court noted that continuing the legal battle might disrupt their family stability and emotional well-being.
Conversely, the bench reasoned that quashing the proceedings would actively promote harmony, peace, and happiness, thereby safeguarding their family life. This perspective aligns with a broader judicial trend that considers the practical outcomes and familial reconciliation in certain sensitive cases, especially when both parties have moved forward constructively.
Implications and Final Ruling
The court's decision underscores a nuanced approach to justice, where the focus shifts from punitive measures to restorative outcomes in specific circumstances. By quashing the case, the bench aimed to prevent potential hardships that could arise from prolonged legal battles, such as social stigma and financial strain, which might undermine the couple's newfound marital bliss.
Accordingly, the bench officially quashed the case against the petitioner, marking a resolution that prioritizes familial harmony over continued prosecution. This ruling highlights the judiciary's role in balancing legal statutes with human considerations, particularly in cases involving personal relationships and subsequent marital unions.
