Pilibhit Court Delivers 20-Year Sentence in Minor Rape Case
A POCSO court in Pilibhit has handed down a stringent 20-year prison sentence to a 26-year-old farmer for the rape of a 14-year-old girl from his village. The verdict, delivered on Thursday, marks the culmination of a three-year legal battle that began with the horrific incident in November 2023.
Details of the Crime and Investigation
The minor survivor's father recounted that on November 23, 2023, his daughter and two friends went to collect firewood near the village pond. The convict, identified as a local farmer, allegedly scared away the other girls before committing the assault. He then threatened to kill the survivor if she reported the crime to anyone or approached the police.
The traumatized girl returned home and confided in her mother, leading to immediate police action. Authorities registered a case under multiple sections, including IPC 376(3) for rape of a woman under sixteen years of age, IPC 506 for criminal intimidation, and relevant sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
Legal Proceedings and Evidence
Police swiftly sent the minor for medical examination and arrested the accused on the same day. Public prosecutor Anil Kumar Sharma emphasized that the survivor's court statements were consistent and supported by medical and forensic reports. The convict remained in custody throughout the trial as all his bail applications were rejected due to the severity of the charges.
After thorough examination of evidence and witness testimonies, the court found the man guilty. Additional district and sessions judge Geeta Singh pronounced the sentence, which includes:
- 20 years rigorous imprisonment under IPC section 376(3) and the POCSO Act, along with a fine of ₹1 lakh.
- Two years imprisonment under IPC section 506, with a penalty of ₹5,000.
Both sentences will run concurrently, and the court directed that the entire fine amount be given to the minor survivor, supplemented by financial compensation from the state.
Broader Implications
This case underscores the judiciary's firm stance on crimes against minors, particularly under the POCSO Act. The swift arrest, denial of bail, and substantial sentence reflect a growing emphasis on protecting vulnerable children and ensuring justice for survivors. The court's directive for financial compensation further aims to support the victim's recovery and future well-being.
