The Kerala High Court on Monday (June 29) dismissed the appeal filed by Prasobh M., former Congress councillor of the Palakkad Municipality, challenging denial of regular bail by the Special Court for SC/ST cases (Mannarkkad) in a sexual assault case. [2026 LiveLaw (Ker) 347]

A detailed judgment is awaited.

Justice A. Badharudeen pronounced the order today in open court.

The allegation against Prasobh is that he sexually exploited a Dalit woman by promising her employment during his tenure as a councillor. It is further alleged that he intimidated and abused her. Based on the woman's complaint, the Palakkad Town South police had registered a case against him.

Earlier, he had sought anticipatory bail, which was dismissed by the Special Court. His appeal before the High Court against the dismissal of pre-arrest bail application was also rejected.

The offences alleged against him are those punishable under Sections 332(b), 69, 115(2) and 351(2) of the BNS as well as Sections 3(1)(w)(i) and 3(2)(v) of the Scheduled Caste/Scheduled Tribe (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.

Case Title: Prasobh M. v. State of Kerala and Anr.

Case No: Crl.A 793/ 2026

Citation: 2026 LiveLaw (Ker) 347

Counsel for the appellant: Sasthamangalam S. Ajithkumar (Sr.), Sreejith S. Nair, Satheesh Mohanan, Mahima