Belagavi Pocso Court Delivers Stern Justice in Minor Gang-Rape Case
A special fast-track Pocso court in Belagavi has pronounced rigorous sentences for the four accused involved in the harrowing gang-rape of a minor girl at a farmhouse on the outskirts of the city. The verdict, delivered on Saturday, marks a significant step in the pursuit of justice for the survivor.
Sentences and Fines Imposed on the Convicts
The court, presided over by special Pocso court judge CM Pushpalatha, held all four individuals guilty based on a thorough investigation and compelling evidence presented by the prosecution. The sentences vary in severity, reflecting the court's careful consideration of the case details.
- Sakib Baig Faiyaz Nizami, aged 22 and hailing from Gandhinagar, received life imprisonment along with a fine of Rs 8.7 lakh.
- Ravi Siddappa Naikodi, aged 34 from Udyambag, was also sentenced to life imprisonment and fined Rs 8.7 lakh.
- Rohan Rajeshkumar Patil, aged 23 from Savgaon Road, Belagavi, was awarded 20 years of rigorous imprisonment and a fine of Rs 6 lakh.
- Ashutosh Maruti Patil, aged 25 also from Savgaon Road, Belagavi, received a similar sentence of 20 years of rigorous imprisonment and a fine of Rs 6 lakh.
Details of the Crime and Investigation
According to the prosecution, the accused had befriended the survivor despite being fully aware that she was a minor. On May 10, 2025, around 2.30 pm, the girl was abducted and taken to a rented farmhouse, where the heinous crime was committed. In addition to the assault, a gold chain weighing 10 grams was taken from the survivor, adding to the gravity of the offense.
The case was initially registered at the Tilakwadi police station and later transferred to the Market police station for further investigation. Investigating officers Parashuram Pujeri and Mahantesh Dhamannavar conducted a meticulous probe, culminating in the filing of a chargesheet before the additional district and sessions court, specifically the special fast-track Pocso court–1.
Compensation and Legal Proceedings
In a move to support the survivor's recovery and well-being, the court directed the District Legal Services Authority to provide Rs 10 lakh as compensation. This financial aid aims to assist with medical, psychological, and other needs arising from the trauma.
Special public prosecutor LV Patil argued the case on behalf of the government, presenting a strong legal argument that contributed to the conviction. The verdict underscores the effectiveness of fast-track courts in handling Pocso cases, ensuring timely justice for victims of child sexual abuse.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts in India to combat crimes against minors through specialized judicial mechanisms. The sentences serve as a stern warning to potential offenders and reinforce the commitment to protecting children's rights under the Pocso Act.
