A Special POCSO Court sentences a 52-year-old man to life imprisonment for raping his 11-year-old stepdaughter. The verdict ensures imprisonment for the remainder of his natural life, reinforcing strict child protection laws and justice for survivors.
A special court under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act on Thursday sentenced a 52-year-old man to life imprisonment for the brutal rape of his 11-year-old stepdaughter, marking a significant judgment in a case involving extreme betrayal of trust and child abuse.
According to Jayanta Chowdhury, who appeared for the prosecution, the court ruled that the convict would remain in prison for the remainder of his natural life, underscoring the gravity of the crime and the need for stringent punishment in cases involving sexual violence against minors. In addition to the life sentence, the court also imposed a fine of Rs 5,000 on the convict.
The prosecution revealed that the horrific incident occurred on the night of April 15, 2024. The victim’s mother, who had married the accused as her second husband, discovered her daughter bleeding and lying on the bedroom floor after returning from the lavatory. Alarmed and distressed, she raised cries for help, prompting neighbors to rush to the house and assist in taking the severely injured child to a hospital for immediate medical treatment.
Following the incident, the victim’s mother lodged a First Information Report (FIR) at the local police station on April 16, 2024. Police officials launched an investigation, during which crucial medical and forensic evidence was collected. After completing the probe, investigators submitted a charge sheet, leading to a detailed and prolonged trial before the special POCSO court.
During the trial, the prosecution presented witness testimonies, medical reports, and circumstantial evidence that established the guilt of the accused beyond reasonable doubt. The court observed that the crime was not only heinous but also involved a severe breach of familial trust, making it one of the gravest categories of sexual offences under the law.
The special prosecutor further informed that the minor victim has since been shifted to a childcare home to ensure her safety, emotional well-being, and social security. Despite the trauma she endured, the child has resumed her education and is reportedly adjusting well in the protected environment, with continued support from welfare authorities.
| Also Read: Tripura Bandh Largely Peaceful; MLAs among 300 arrested |
Legal experts believe the judgment sends a strong message that crimes against children will be met with zero tolerance and the harshest punishment permissible under the law.
