Belagavi Court Delivers Severe Punishment in Minor Abduction and Rape Case
A special court operating under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Pocso) Act in Belagavi has handed down a significant verdict, sentencing a 23-year-old man to a total of thirty years of rigorous imprisonment for the abduction and rape of a minor girl. This ruling underscores the judiciary's firm stance against crimes targeting children and aims to deliver justice in a case that has drawn public attention.
Details of the Conviction and Legal Proceedings
The convict, identified as Darshan Bhagwant Hunashyali, a resident of Shankar Nagar in Sankeshwar, was found guilty under relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Pocso Act. In addition to the lengthy prison term, the court imposed a substantial fine of Rs 1 lakh, reflecting the severity of the offenses committed.
The incident dates back to August 24, 2024, when the minor victim was returning home from college. She was abducted on a motorcycle near Nidsosi and subsequently taken to a neighbouring state and nearby towns, highlighting the brazen nature of the crime. Following this traumatic event, a formal case was registered at the Sankeshwar police station under the Pocso Act, initiating a thorough legal process.
Investigation and Court Proceedings
Police inspector SM Avaji led the investigation into the case, meticulously gathering evidence and filing a chargesheet before the court. After a comprehensive examination of the evidence and hearing arguments from both sides, special Pocso court judge CM Pushpalatha pronounced the verdict. The court's decision was based on a careful assessment of the facts, ensuring that justice was served for the survivor.
Beyond the primary sentence, the court imposed an additional seven years of imprisonment and a fine of Rs 25,000 under Section 137 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), demonstrating the application of newer legal frameworks to enhance penalties for such heinous acts. This multi-layered sentencing approach aims to act as a strong deterrent against future crimes of a similar nature.
Compensation and Legal Representation
In a move to support the survivor's recovery, the District Legal Services Authority directed that she be paid compensation of Rs 4 lakh. This financial assistance is intended to help her rebuild her life and access necessary resources in the aftermath of the ordeal. Special government prosecutor LV Patil represented the prosecution in the case, playing a crucial role in presenting the evidence and arguments that led to the conviction.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in protecting minors from sexual offenses and the importance of robust legal mechanisms like the Pocso Act. The verdict in Belagavi sends a clear message about the consequences of such crimes, reinforcing the commitment to safeguarding children's rights and ensuring accountability for perpetrators.
