The High Court of Andhra Pradesh has allowed the criminal petition filed by the maternal grandmother of the victim (de facto complainant) and cancelled the bail granted to K. Sambasiva Rao, Principal of Sri Kora Public School, Gollapudi, Vijayawada. Justice Dr. Venkata Jyothirmai Pratapa set aside the order dated 08.04.2026 passed by the Special Judge for Speedy Trial of POCSO Cases, Vijayawada in Crl.M.P.No.307 of 2026, in connection with Crime No.96 of 2026 registered at Bhavanipuram Police Station for offences under Sections 75(1), 64, 64(2)(f) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 and Sections 6 and 8 of the POCSO Act.
The case pertains to allegations made by a 16-year-old girl studying in 8th class and suffering from autism since childhood. The victim, who lost her mother about ten years ago and was abandoned by her father, is under the care of her maternal grandmother. According to the prosecution, during medical examination on 03.03.2026, the victim disclosed that the accused principal had behaved indecently with her on 25.02.2026 by holding her waist and touching her cheeks and chest, and had threatened her not to reveal the incident. The accused was arrested on 12.03.2026. His first bail application was dismissed on 18.03.2026, but a second application filed shortly thereafter was allowed on 08.04.2026.
The High Court held that successive bail applications in serious offences, particularly those under the POCSO Act, cannot be entertained in a routine or mechanical manner without any substantial change in circumstances. The Court observed that the trial court did not record any fresh or compelling circumstances justifying reconsideration of the bail application within a short span.
Referring to established principles, the Court emphasised that while dealing with applications for bail in heinous crimes involving minor victims, especially those with special needs like autism, the gravity of the offence, vulnerability of the victim, and larger interest of society are relevant considerations. The Court noted the registration of a subsequent case (Crime No.151 of 2026) based on allegations of intimidation and attempts to influence the victim’s family.
The High Court concluded that the order granting bail warranted interference and accordingly cancelled the bail. The accused was directed to surrender before the concerned court within three days from the date of receipt of the order, failing which the police were granted liberty to take necessary steps to secure his custody. Miscellaneous petitions, if any, were closed.
Case Details:
Title: Maternal Grandmother of Victim v. State of Andhra Pradesh & Anr.
Case No.: Criminal Petition No. 3825 of 2026
Coram: Dr. Justice Venkata Jyothirmai Pratapa
Date of Order: 08.05.2026
Click HERE for full Judgment.
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