Jharsuguda Pocso Court Delivers Life Sentence in Heinous Father-Daughter Rape Case
A court in Jharsuguda has handed down a severe punishment in a deeply disturbing case of sexual assault within a family. The Additional District & Sessions-cum-Special Judge (POCSO), Puja Sarangi, sentenced a 39-year-old man to rigorous life imprisonment for the rape of his own 17-year-old daughter. The verdict was pronounced on Tuesday, concluding a trial that lasted five months after the crime was committed.
Chronology of the Crime and Investigation
According to the prosecution's case, presented by Special Public Prosecutor Prithwiraj Singhdeo, the horrific incident occurred on July 8. The accused, a driver originally from Jharkhand, had brought his minor daughter to Jharsuguda district under the false pretext of needing her to cook for him. It was during this time that he sexually assaulted her.
The following day, on July 9, the traumatized victim confided in a neighbour, narrating her ordeal. This disclosure led to the filing of a formal police complaint. Based on her report, the Jharsuguda police promptly registered a case, initiated a thorough investigation, and arrested the father.
Court Proceedings and Final Judgment
Judge Puja Sarangi's court meticulously examined the evidence presented over the course of the trial. The prosecution relied on 16 witnesses and 21 documents to build an incontrovertible case against the accused. After evaluating all evidence, the judge found him guilty under the stringent provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
Beyond the life sentence, the court also imposed a fine of Rs 50,000 on the convict. The order specified that failure to pay this fine would result in an additional one-year term of rigorous imprisonment. In a significant directive aimed at supporting the survivor, the court ordered a compensation of Rs 10.5 lakh to be paid to the girl.
Police and Legal Reaction to the Conviction
Jharsuguda Superintendent of Police G Reddy Raghavendra commended the efforts that led to the conviction. He stated that the verdict was the result of consistent monitoring, close supervision, and coordinated efforts by the police team. Their work ensured a timely investigation, robust collection of evidence, and diligent follow-up during the trial proceedings.
"Jharsuguda police reiterate their zero-tolerance policy towards crimes against children and women," SP Raghavendra asserted. "We assure the public of swift, firm, and lawful action against offenders." This case underscores the critical role of prompt reporting and systematic investigation in securing justice under the POCSO Act, even in the most sensitive and challenging familial contexts.
