Wife Tutored Daughter, Was Building Case Against Husband: Karnataka High Court Acquits Father Accused Of Sexually Abusing Child

The Karnataka High Court has upheld the acquittal of a father who was accused of sexually assaulting his minor daughter, citing significant contradictions and a lack of credible evidence in the prosecution's case. The court observed that the testimony of the child victim was inconsistent and appeared to be tutored. It noted that there was a considerable delay in filing the complaint, which was lodged amidst a bitter matrimonial dispute between the child's parents. The High Court found that the prosecution had failed to prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt, which is a fundamental requirement in criminal law. The judgment underscores the importance of a thorough and cautious evaluation of evidence in sensitive cases under the POCSO Act, especially when there is a background of family discord, to prevent the misuse of the law and ensure that justice is served.