Kerala HC Quashes Criminal Proceedings Against Muslim Students Federation’s State President Over Alleged Derogatory Remarks Against Women Leaders
The Kerala High Court has quashed the criminal proceedings against the State President of the Muslim Students Federation (MSF), who faced allegations of making derogatory remarks against former leaders of 'Haritha', the female wing of the MSF based on a settlement between parties.
The allegations stemmed from an incident during a State Committee meeting of the MSF in June 2021, where the petitioner reportedly used derogatory language against certain former women leaders of 'Haritha'.
The charges against him included offenses punishable under Sections 354A(i), (iv) (related to sexual harassment) and Section 509 (pertaining to words, gestures, or acts intended to insult a woman's modesty) of the Indian Penal Code.
A Bench of Justice A. Badharudeen heard the case and quashed the First Information Report (FIR), the Final Report, and any further proceedings that were pending before the Judicial First Class Magistrate-IV in Kozhikode. The Court noted that the matter had been amicably resolved between the parties involved.
The Court said, "Since the matter has been amicably settled between the parties, there is no reason to disallow the prayer for quashment so as to facilitate peaceful living of the parties hereinafter and to protect their political career. Therefore, in the interest of justice, I am inclined to allow this petition."
Cause Title: Navas PK v. State of Kerala & Anr., [2024:KER:74089]
Appearance:
Petitioner: Advocates P.E. Sajal, Ajas K.S.
Respondents: Senior Public Prosecutor Renjith George, Advocates P.A. Mohammed Shah, Renoy Vincent, Shahir Showkath Ali, Abee Shejirik Fasla N.K, Chelson Chembarathy, Mauhamed Junaid V., Fathima Afeeda P., Adith Krishnan U., Sherin Sheriyar, Afeefa Nafeesa
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