In a distressing incident, a male teacher, K. Ramakrishnan, found himself arraigned in the Alor Gajah Sessions Court, facing charges of physically sexually assaulting an 11-year-old girl in a classroom two years ago. The accused, aged 42, promptly entered a plea of not guilty when the charges were read out before Judge Nariman Badruddin.
The charges against Ramakrishnan allege that he committed physical sexual abuse by touching the child's private parts during a Year Five class at a school in Durian Tunggal, Alor Gajah, around 10:30 am on May 26, 2022. Currently employed at the District Education Office (PPD), the accused faces charges under Section 14 (a) of the Sexual Offenses Against Children Act (AKSTK) 2017. If convicted, this offense carries a potential prison sentence of up to 20 years, along with the possibility of corporal punishment.
During the proceedings, Deputy Public Prosecutor Anis Najwa Nazari recommended a bail amount of RM 20,000, coupled with the condition that the accused should refrain from contacting or disturbing the victim. Represented by lawyer S. Karthigesan, the accused appealed for a reduction in bail, citing financial responsibilities, as he is married and supports both his mother and wife. The defense also emphasized the accused's cooperation during the investigation period and highlighted that he no longer had duties at the school, minimizing the likelihood of contact with the victim.
Judge Nariman, in his judgment, granted the accused bail at RM8,000 with one surety. In addition, he issued a strict order prohibiting the accused from approaching the victim or any family members. The court scheduled February 28 as the date for the re-mention of the case and the submission of relevant documents.
The proceedings shed light on the gravity of the allegations and the legal process that will unfold in the coming months. The accused's plea of not guilty initiates a complex legal battle, where the court will carefully weigh the evidence presented by both the prosecution and the defense.
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