Kerala High Court Confirms 10-Year Jail Term for Elderly Rape Convict

The Kerala High Court on October 22, 2026 upheld a 10-year prison sentence for Muhammad of Thrissur, convicted of raping and molesting a 73‑year‑old woman in 2022 under the claim of driving out an “evil spirit”. Justice A. Badharudeen dismissed Muhammad’s appeal, ruling that the survivor’s testimony alone proved guilt despite a 19‑day delay in reporting and inconsistencies about the incident’s date. The judge noted that the lack of physical injuries did not undermine the victim’s account, adding that she had waited to discuss the matter with her children before filing a police complaint. In addition to confirming the sentence, the court cancelled Muhammad’s bail and ordered him to surrender to the trial court to begin serving the term.

Context

The case highlights how Indian courts can rely heavily on survivor testimony in sexual assault cases, even when physical evidence is limited or reporting is delayed. It also reflects the judiciary’s stance against bail provisions for serious offenses involving vulnerable victims.