Telangana High Court Grants Bail to Union Minister's Son in POCSO Case with Conditions

The Telangana High Court on Thursday granted bail to Bandi Bhagirath, the son of Union Minister Bandi Sanjay Kumar, in a case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012. The court ordered his release on a personal bond of Rs 1 lakh along with two sureties, subject to several conditions.

The case was registered following allegations of sexual assault of a 17-year-old girl. The court’s bail order includes directives that Bhagirath must not contact or influence witnesses, tamper with evidence, or interfere with the investigation. He is also required to cooperate with the investigating officer and appear before the court as and when summoned.

According to court documents, the First Information Report (FIR) was lodged on May 8, and Bhagirath was taken into custody on May 16. He had previously sought bail several times. On June 20, the High Court granted him interim bail to enable him to take his Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) examinations, with a stipulation to surrender on June 25.

The prosecution had opposed the bail application, citing the serious nature of the charges under POCSO. The defence, however, argued that the allegations were false and that Bhagirath, a student with no prior criminal record, should be granted bail. The court, while granting bail, stated that the conditions imposed would be sufficient to ensure that the investigation proceeds unhindered.

Legal experts note that bail is not a determination of guilt. The POCSO Act prescribes stringent punishments upon conviction, but the law also upholds the right to liberty and the principle of presumption of innocence. The court’s decision balances these aspects while ensuring the safety and interests of the minor victim.

The case has attracted media attention due to the political background of the accused. However, authorities have cautioned against any actions that could prejudice the judicial process or compromise the victim’s identity. Under Section 23 of the POCSO Act, the identity of the victim must not be disclosed, and the media is expected to adhere to this legal mandate.

The next hearing in the case is expected to take place as the investigation continues. The bail conditions will remain in effect throughout the proceedings.