Hyderabad: The Telangana High Court has granted bail to Bandi Sai Bageerath in a case registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

Justice Kalasikam Sujana passed the order on Wednesday in a criminal petition after the accused spent 55 days in judicial custody. The case was registered as Crime No. 684 of 2026 at Petbasheerabad Police Station in Medchal-Malkajgiri district under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the POCSO Act.

The case was registered based on a complaint filed by the victim’s mother on May 8, 2026. According to the complaint, the 17-year-old girl was allegedly introduced to the petitioner through mutual friends and social media in June 2025. It was alleged that he developed a relationship with her on a promise of marriage and committed repeated offences.

The prosecution alleged that the incidents took place at locations, including Golf View Apartments in Nanakramguda, Lux Charan Farm Stay and Ananya Farms in Moinabad during December 31, 2025 and January 1, 2026. Further allegations included circulation of private photographs and attempts to defame the victim.

Senior counsel T Niranjan Reddy, appearing for the petitioner, argued that his client was innocent and falsely implicated. He submitted that the petitioner had cooperated with the investigation, appeared for questioning, and had earlier complied with conditions imposed during interim bail granted for examinations.

Public Prosecutor Palle Nageshwar Rao opposed the bail plea, stating that the allegations were serious and that releasing the accused could affect witnesses and the investigation.

Counsel representing the victim’s mother also opposed the bail, stating that certain witnesses and evidence were yet to be examined.

The High Court observed that the concerns raised by the complainant could be addressed through strict conditions and ruled that continued detention was not necessary.

The court directed the petitioner to furnish a personal bond of Rs 1 lakh with two sureties. He must report to the police station every Monday for eight weeks or until filing of the chargesheet.

He was also barred from contacting the victim, witnesses, or making any public statements regarding the case.