ABLAPL/8818/2026 of RAJ KISHORE SETHI Vs STATE OF ODISHA on 9 September 2026

ORDER

09.09.2026

03.

1. Heard learned counsel for the Petitioner and learned counsel for the State.

2. None appears for the Informant when the matter is called.

3. The Petitioner is seeking pre-arrest bail in connection with Special G.R. Case No.76 of 2026 pending on the file of learned Additional Sessions Judge- cum-Special Judge under POCSO Act, Puri arising out of Puri Sadar P.S. Case No.382 of 2026 for commission of offences punishable under Sections 126(2)/115(2)/74/ 76/351(2)/324(4)3(5) of BNS, 2023 read with section 12 of POCSO Act.

4. It is submitted by learned counsel for the Petitioner that the Petitioner suffers from locomotive disability and the Disability I.D. Card is on record. Referring to the same, it is submitted that the

allegations are highly improbable. Hence, the Petitioner may be protected by pre-arrest bail.

5. Learned State Counsel opposes the prayer for bail.

6. This Court perused the statement of the victim recorded under section 183 of the BNSS and the injury suffered, which is grievous and corresponds to the allegation. In view of the same, this Court is not inclined to entertain this application of the Petitioner for pre- arrest bail. Considering the fact that the Petitioner has disability, as stated, it is directed that he may surrender before the learned Additional Sessions Judge-cum- Special Judge under POCSO Act, Puri, in connection with the aforementioned case within one month from today.

7. In the event of his surrender and motion for bail, the same be considered by the learned Additional Sessions Judge-cum-Special Judge under POCSO Act, Puri, on merits, on the same day.

8. The ABLAPL is accordingly disposed of.

(V. Narasingh)

Judge Basu Digitally Signed Signed by: BASUDEV NAYAK Designation: ADDL. DY. REGISTRAR-CUM-ADDL. PRINCIPAL SECY Reason: Authentication Location: HIGH COURT OF ORISSA : CUTTACK Date: 12-Sep-2026 16:57:19 Signature Not Verified