Severe Punishment for Heinous Crime Under POCSO Act
In a significant verdict, a special court in Villupuram dedicated to cases under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, has delivered a stern sentence. The court convicted a 30-year-old man, K Rajendran, for the kidnapping and sexual assault of a 13-year-old girl with an intellectual disability. The incident occurred near Villupuram, sending shockwaves through the local community.
Court Delivers Concurrent Sentences and Compensation
Presiding Special Judge M Vinodha pronounced the judgment, sentencing Rajendran to undergo two terms of 20 years of rigorous imprisonment and an additional 10 years of rigorous imprisonment for the separate offences. In a crucial detail, the court ordered that all three prison terms shall run concurrently, meaning the convict will effectively serve 20 years behind bars.
Beyond the imprisonment, the court emphasized restorative justice by awarding a substantial compensation of Rs four lakh to the minor survivor. This financial support is intended to aid in her recovery and future well-being following the traumatic ordeal.
Bravery of Survivor Leads to Conviction
According to the prosecution's case, K Rajendran abducted the young girl and subjected her to sexual assault. Despite her intellectual disability, the victim displayed immense courage. She later managed to narrate the entire incident to her mother.
Acting swiftly on her daughter's account, the mother approached the Gingee all-women police station to lodge a formal complaint. The police investigated the matter thoroughly and booked Rajendran under the relevant, stringent sections of the POCSO Act, which is specifically designed to protect children from such atrocities.
A Message of Deterrence and Justice
This verdict from the Villupuram POCSO court sends a powerful message about the seriousness with which the Indian judiciary treats crimes against children, especially those who are particularly vulnerable due to disabilities. The imposition of a long-term rigorous imprisonment coupled with significant compensation underscores a dual approach: punishing the perpetrator and supporting the victim's journey towards healing.
The case highlights the critical importance of reporting such crimes and the effectiveness of special legislation like the POCSO Act in ensuring that justice is served. It also stands as a testament to the bravery of the young survivor and her family in their pursuit of justice.
