A fast track special court in Thiruvananthapuram delivered a significant verdict on Wednesday, sentencing a 54-year-old man to 14 years of rigorous imprisonment for the sexual assault of a neighbor's child. The court's decision underscores the judiciary's firm stance on crimes against minors under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
Court Imposes Substantial Penalty Alongside Prison Term
Judge Anju Meera Birla, presiding over the case, convicted the accused, a resident of Vettucaud, under multiple sections of the POCSO Act. In addition to the 14-year prison sentence, the court imposed a fine of Rs 26,000. The judgment specifies that failure to pay this fine will result in an additional prison term of three years and three months, highlighting the comprehensive nature of the penalty.
Compensation Ordered for Survivor
The court directed that the fine amount, combined with compensation from the Legal Services Authority, be paid to the survivor. This measure aims to provide financial support and acknowledge the trauma endured by the child, reflecting a victim-centric approach in the legal process.
Details of the October 2024 Incident
The assault occurred on October 20, 2024, when the accused lured the child, who was playing on a terrace, to his house under the pretext of asking the child to pick up a flowerpot. Once inside, he sexually assaulted the child. The frightened child promptly reported the incident to their father, who then went to the accused's home to confront him. However, the accused managed to escape before any questioning could take place.
Rigorous Trial with Extensive Evidence
The trial involved the examination of 13 witnesses, with 20 documents and three material objects presented as evidence, ensuring a thorough judicial review. The case was investigated by a team led by Valiyathura sub-inspector Jayashree S., with special public prosecutors R S Vijay Mohan and Surabhi P. representing the prosecution. This collaborative effort contributed to the robust legal proceedings that led to the conviction.
This verdict serves as a stern reminder of the legal consequences for such heinous acts and reinforces the importance of the POCSO Act in safeguarding children's rights in India.
