Bengaluru court sentences Tennessee man to three years in prison for sexually assaulting minors during flight

The incident took place on June 27, 2023, when Murugesan, under the influence of alcohol, inappropriately touched the minor girl during the flight. The girl's mother objected to his behavior, following which the flight attendants changed their seats. After landing, the girl's father reported the incident to the Kempegowda International Airport police, which led to Murugesan's arrest under Section 8 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. He was granted bail on July 27, 2023.

During the trial, the victim testified through video link as she was abroad. Last week, the Additional District and Sessions Fast-Track Special Court in Bengaluru Rural district found Murugesan guilty and sentenced him under the POCSO Act.

The court order said if Murugesan fails to pay the fine, he will face an additional three months in jail. Half of the fine – Rs 5,000 – will be paid to the victim as compensation. The court also noted that Murugesan is entitled to have the time he spent in custody from June 28 to July 27, 2023, credited towards his sentence.

The court has granted bail to Murugesan to appeal against the verdict, citing his cooperative behaviour throughout the trial and his regular attendance at court hearings. Under Section 389(3) of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), he can remain on bail until the expiry of the appeal period.