Bail granted to Rukmandas Sharma @ Aditya Sharma with strict conditions to ensure victim's safety and trial integrity.
In a significant ruling, the Rajasthan High Court has granted bail to Rukmandas Sharma, also known as Aditya Sharma, who was accused of sexual harassment and stalking a minor, under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The decision was delivered by Justice Ashok Kumar Jain in response to the bail application filed in the case registered at the Mukta Prasad Nagar Police Station, District Bikaner.
The case revolves around allegations of sexual harassment and stalking reported by the father of the minor victim, leading to an FIR filed on February 22, 2026. Sharma was subsequently arrested on February 24, 2026, and charged under Sections 78(2) and 79 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, along with Sections 11 and 12 of the POCSO Act.
The court noted that the investigation had been completed and the charge-sheet filed, allowing for the possibility of granting bail. However, the bail was granted with stringent conditions to ensure the safety of the victim and the integrity of the judicial process. The court emphasized that these conditions are crucial to maintain a fair trial and protect the victim from any further distress.
The conditions imposed include the requirement for Sharma to furnish a bond of Rs. 50,000 with two sureties. Additionally, Sharma is prohibited from contacting the victim or their family directly or indirectly, and is barred from using social media platforms for a year. Any breach of these conditions, such as using social media or attempting to contact the victim, would lead to the cancellation of the bail.
The court's decision underscores the importance of balancing the rights of the accused with the need to protect victims and ensure justice. It reflects a cautious approach, taking into account the time already spent in custody by the accused and the potential duration of the trial proceedings.
The ruling has sparked discussions on the conditions under which bail should be granted in cases involving minors and the use of digital platforms in such offenses. Legal experts opine that the conditions imposed are necessary to prevent any misuse of bail provisions and to safeguard the interests of the victim.
The Registry has been directed to communicate the order to the Trial Court via email, ensuring that the conditions of the bail are strictly adhered to.
Bottom line:-
Bail application granted to applicant-accused under strict conditions, including prohibition from using social media platforms, not contacting the victim, and attending trial proceedings, ensuring victim's safety and integrity of trial.
Statutory provision(s): Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023 Section 483, POCSO Act, 2012 Sections 11 and 12
Rukmandas Sharma @ Aditya Sharma v. State of Rajasthan, (Rajasthan) : Law Finder Doc id # 2907186
