Overview
- Justice M I Arun refused to quash the case and affirmed the special court’s February 28 order taking cognizance and issuing summons to B. S. Yediyurappa.
- The trial court was directed not to insist on his appearance unless necessary and to consider exemption applications unless his presence is essential.
- The petitions were disposed of with clarity that the trial court must decide solely on evidence led at trial and that the accused may seek discharge.
- The case arises from a complaint alleging sexual assault of a 17-year-old at Yediyurappa’s Bengaluru residence on February 2, 2024, with an FIR on March 14 and a CID chargesheet following.
- The charges invoke the POCSO Act and IPC sections 354A, 204 and 214; the complainant’s mother died on May 26, 2024, as the defense contests credibility and timing while prosecutors say cognizance was reasoned.