Chennai Court Delivers Justice: Ex-Policeman Sentenced to Life for Minor's Rape and Suicide
In a landmark verdict that brings closure to a tragic case, a mahila court in Chennai has sentenced a former police constable to life imprisonment for the rape of a 16-year-old girl and abetment of her suicide. The judgment, delivered more than six years after the incident, highlights systemic failures and the pursuit of justice for the victim.
Details of the Case and Court Ruling
Judge G Prabakaran found the accused, Magesh, 27, guilty of multiple charges, including rape, coercing the minor into an abortion, refusing to marry her, and abetting her suicide. The constable, who had been dismissed from service, was sentenced to rigorous life imprisonment, meaning he will remain in jail for the remainder of his natural life. Additionally, a fine of ₹50,000 was imposed, with a provision for two years of simple imprisonment if the fine is not paid.
The court also awarded compensation of ₹5 lakh to the victim's mother, acknowledging the severe mental trauma she endured. This amount is separate from any interim compensation already provided and must be paid by the Tamil Nadu government within 30 days of receiving the judgment copy.
Background and Investigation
The case dates back to July 2020, during the Covid-19 lockdown, when Magesh befriended the victim. He abducted her, confined her in a guest house in Kovalam, and raped her. Upon discovering she was pregnant, he coerced her into an abortion by falsely promising marriage. After realizing she had been deceived, the girl filed a complaint at the MKB Nagar all-women police station, but no action was taken.
Dejected by the inaction, the girl died by suicide at her home in Vyasarpadi on November 19, 2020. Three days later, her mother lodged a complaint, leading to a case registration. Following a Madras High Court direction on March 8, 2021, the investigation was transferred to the CB-CID, which uncovered the full extent of the crimes.
Legal Charges and Trial Proceedings
The accused was charged under Sections 305 (abetment of suicide of a child) and 366 (kidnapping or abducting to compel marriage or illicit intercourse) of the Indian Penal Code, along with relevant provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The trial was conducted at the mahila court in the Allikulam court campus, with special public prosecutor A M Ravindranath Jeyapaul representing the CB-CID.
This case underscores the critical need for prompt action by law enforcement in sexual assault cases, particularly those involving minors. The verdict serves as a stern reminder of the legal consequences for such heinous acts and the importance of supporting victims through the judicial process.
