Koderma Court Delivers 20-Year Sentence in POCSO Case, Imposes Fine and Compensation
In a significant ruling, the court of Ghulam Haider, Additional District and Sessions Judge-I and Special POCSO Judge in Koderma, sentenced 20-year-old Banwari Lal to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment on Monday. The court also imposed a combined fine of Rs 30,000 on the resident of Rajasthan. Additionally, the court directed that the survivor receive further compensation under the state's Victim Compensation Scheme, ensuring support for her recovery and well-being.
Details of the Abduction and Rescue Operation
The case originated in 2025 when the survivor's mother filed a complaint after her daughter disappeared during a visit to the market. According to the prosecution, the girl had gone to buy food but never returned. Investigations by authorities led them to Rajasthan, where the girl was eventually rescued after a thorough search and intervention.
Survivor's Harrowing Account of the Incident
In her statement, the survivor recounted a traumatic experience. She described how a group of individuals forced her to inhale an intoxicating substance, causing her to lose consciousness before being forcibly put into a car. Upon waking, she found herself in a locked room in a different state, where she was subjected to a forced marriage and repeated assaults, highlighting the severe nature of the crimes committed against her.
Prosecution's Efforts and Court Proceedings
During the trial, public prosecutor Praveen Kumar Singh examined all witnesses meticulously and emphasised the gravity of the crimes to seek the maximum possible penalty. Praveen Kumar Singh revealed that the victim was sold to the accused for Rs 1.90 lakh by an intermediary, underscoring the commercial aspect of the abduction. The court's decision reflects a strong stance against such offenses, aiming to deliver justice and deter future incidents.
