Belagavi Court Imposes 30-Year Sentence for Sexual Assault of Minor
In a significant ruling, the additional district and sessions court and special Pocso court in Belagavi delivered a stern verdict on Tuesday, sentencing a 28-year-old man to 30 years of rigorous imprisonment for the sexual assault of a minor girl. The court also imposed a fine of Rs 1 lakh on the convict, emphasizing the gravity of the crime under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Pocso) Act.
Details of the Convict and Incident
The convict has been identified as Basavaraj alias Suraj Kadappa Timmanavar, a resident of Kurani in Hukkeri taluk. The court found him guilty in connection with an incident that occurred on September 30, 2023. According to the prosecution, Timmanavar lured the minor survivor to the Haragapur hills, where he sexually assaulted her. In a further act of cruelty, he recorded a video of the crime and used it to mentally harass and threaten the victim, exacerbating her trauma.
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
The case came to light after the survivor's family lodged a complaint, leading to the registration of a case by ASI BS Madar at the Sankeshwar police station. The investigation was spearheaded by inspector SM Awaji, who meticulously gathered evidence and later filed a chargesheet before the court. During the trial, the court examined eight witnesses and considered 66 documents and three material objects as evidence, ensuring a thorough review of all aspects.
Court's Verdict and Compensation
After a detailed assessment of the oral and documentary evidence, judge CM Pushpalata concluded that the prosecution had conclusively proven the charges against the accused. In addition to the prison term and fine, the court directed the accused to pay Rs 4 lakh as compensation to the survivor. This compensation will be disbursed through the District Legal Services Authority, aiming to provide some relief and support to the victim. Govt prosecutor LV Patil led the prosecution efforts, ensuring justice was served in this heinous case.
The ruling underscores the judiciary's commitment to protecting children and delivering swift justice in Pocso cases, serving as a deterrent against such crimes in society.
