Victim’s Objection Leads to Dismissal of Sentence Stay Request

In a landmark decision on July 14, the Kerala High Court rejected a stay‑of‑sentence application filed by former actress Pulsar Sunny, who was convicted for the 2017 sexual harassment of a young woman. The court ruled that the victim’s protest against the suspension carried substantial weight.

Sunny’s petition argued that the punishment should be paused until the appellate court delivers a final verdict. The victim countered, describing the crime as a “vile act” and insisting that any delay would dilute its seriousness and jeopardise societal norms.

The state government and the prosecution corroborated the victim’s position, noting Sunny’s persistent criminal conduct, multiple bail applications, and prior fines imposed for defying court orders. They also pointed out that he had faced fresh charges shortly after receiving bail in an unrelated Supreme Court matter.

After weighing all evidence and testimonies, the bench affirmed the trial court’s judgment and denied the request for a sentence stay, thereby maintaining the integrity of the original conviction.