Justice Delivered: DNA Evidence Secures 20-Year Sentence in Minor Rape Case
In a landmark judgment that underscores the power of forensic science, a Jajpur court has sentenced a 32-year-old man to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment for repeatedly raping a 17-year-old girl and impregnating her two years ago.
The Ad hoc Additional District-cum-Fast-Track Special Court (Pocso), presided over by Judge Sarat Kumar Dehuri, delivered the verdict on Tuesday, relying heavily on DNA evidence that conclusively established the accused as the biological father of the child born to the survivor.
DNA Evidence Proves Decisive in Court
The case took a significant turn when the accused denied any involvement in the crime. Following court orders, blood samples were collected from the man while he was in jail and sent to the State Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) in Bhubaneswar for analysis.
In his order, Judge Dehuri observed that DNA tests serve as an effective tool for investigation and establishing guilt, noting that the forensic report clearly proved the accused had fathered the girl's child. The scientific evidence became the cornerstone of the prosecution's case.
Special Public Prosecutor Partha Sarathi Ray stated, "Based on the DNA report, medical evidence and testimonies, the court convicted the man." The court heard testimonies from seven witnesses, including the survivor herself.
Timeline of the Crime and Investigation
The horrific pattern of abuse came to light in May 2023 when the girl's mother noticed physical signs of pregnancy. Alarmed by these developments, the family immediately took action, with the father filing a First Information Report (FIR) on May 23, 2023.
Investigation revealed that the convict had threatened the girl with dire consequences if she revealed the repeated sexual assaults. Despite these threats, the truth emerged when her pregnancy became apparent.
The survivor gave birth to a son in October 2023, adding another layer of complexity to the case. Police arrested the accused under Section 376(2)(n) of the Indian Penal Code for repeated rape on the same woman and Section 6 of the Pocso Act, 2012.
Court Imposes Strict Punishment and Compensation
Beyond the 20-year prison sentence, the court demonstrated its commitment to justice through additional measures. The convict was fined Rs 10,000, with a provision for an additional two-year jail term in case of default in payment.
In a significant move toward supporting the survivor, the court directed the Odisha State Legal Services Authority (OSLSA) to pay compensation of Rs 7 lakh to the girl. This financial support aims to help her rebuild her life and care for her child.
The judgment sends a strong message about the judiciary's zero-tolerance approach toward sexual crimes against minors and highlights the growing importance of scientific evidence in securing convictions in such sensitive cases.
