Kochi, Oct 30 (NationPress) The Kerala High Court has recently adjusted two bail provisions that were placed on Malayalam rapper Vedan, whose real name is Hirandas, by the Sessions Court while he was granted anticipatory bail in a sexual harassment case. This modification now permits him to travel internationally for an upcoming concert tour.

Justice C. Pratheep Kumar has removed the restrictions that prevented the artist from leaving Kerala and mandated weekly appearances before the investigating officer (IO).

The court mandated, however, that Vedan must provide prior notice to the IO before departing the country.

With this ruling, Vedan is now set for performances in Dubai, Qatar, France, and Germany from November 23 to December 20.

The bench acknowledged that the prosecution did not object to lifting the travel restrictions, provided Vedan continues to report to the IO as required.

“Given the circumstances presented, we hereby dispose of the petition as follows: Conditions 3 and 5 are hereby removed. The petitioner must report to the IO whenever summoned, with prior notice,” the court stated.

This case traces back to December 2022, when an FIR was filed against Vedan at the Ernakulam Central Police Station following a complaint from a research scholar in Dalit music.

The scholar accused the rapper of luring her to his residence under the guise of discussing music, where he allegedly spoke to her in an inappropriate manner and attempted to assault her.

He has been charged under Sections 294(b), 354, and 354A(1)(i) of the Indian Penal Code. Vedan previously obtained pre-arrest bail from the Sessions Court but later challenged two specific conditions restricting his travel and requiring weekly police check-ins.

The High Court, considering his compliance with bail conditions over the last six weeks, found justification in easing the restrictions while ensuring oversight on his travel plans.