A fast-track special court in Sonipat has sentenced an archery coach to five years of rigorous imprisonment under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act for sexually harassing a national-level minor archer during a championship trial camp. The court also imposed a fine of Rs 15,000 on the convict.
Court Proceedings and Verdict
Additional sessions judge Narendra pronounced the sentence after holding the coach guilty on May 15 following a trial based on witness testimonies, documentary evidence and investigation records. Special public prosecutor Vijender Singh Khatri said the court awarded five years' rigorous imprisonment under Section 10 of the POCSO Act and three years under Section 12. Both sentences will run concurrently.
Details of the Incident
According to the prosecution, the survivor had come to Sonipat in April 2023 to participate in youth championship trials organised at a Sports Authority of India centre. In her complaint, the minor alleged that the coach entered her hotel room around 4am on April 7, 2023, and attempted to sexually assault her. She alleged that she managed to escape after struggling with him and sought help from fellow players staying nearby.
Legal Action and Investigation
The survivor later informed her father, following which the family approached authorities and an FIR was registered at Murthal police station on August 18, 2023, under relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code and the POCSO Act. Police investigated the case through a woman investigating officer and submitted the chargesheet before the court.
The court's decision underscores the legal system's commitment to protecting minors from sexual offences, especially in sports environments. The coach's conviction serves as a deterrent against such misconduct and reinforces the importance of safeguarding young athletes.
