Actor Assault Case: Bail Denied for Convicted Driver

The Kerala High Court has dismissed a petition filed by Martin Antony, who was convicted in the 2017 actor abduction and sexual assault case. Antony had sought bail and suspension of his 20-year prison sentence while his appeal is pending.

A division bench comprising Justices V Raja Vijayaraghavan and K V Jayakumar concluded that no exceptional circumstances warranted the suspension of the sentence. The prosecution's case is that Antony drove the vehicle carrying the actor, facilitating her abduction and subsequent sexual assault by co-accused, including Pulsar Suni.

Antony maintained his innocence, claiming false implication. However, the court noted his alleged role, the gravity of the offense, and his violation of bail conditions by publishing defamatory videos against the survivor. Another case was registered against him for this violation while he was on bail.

Given Antony's alleged involvement, the nature of the crime, and his actions while on bail, the court found no grounds to grant relief, leading to the dismissal of his petition.