[POCSO] Accused's Culpable Mental State Cannot Be Considered At Pre-Trial Stage: Kerala High Court Dismisses Discharge Plea

The Kerala High Court dismissed a discharge plea in a case where an advocate was accused of sexually assaulting a minor boy. The court ruled that the culpable mental state of the accused is a matter to be examined during the trial, not at the pre-trial stage. This decision underscores the importance of a thorough judicial process in serious criminal cases, ensuring that all aspects of the case are considered before reaching a verdict.