Fatehabad Fast-Track Court Delivers 20-Year Sentence in Minor Rape Case
A fast-track court in Fatehabad, Haryana, has delivered a significant verdict in a nearly two-and-a-half-year-old case, convicting and sentencing 29-year-old Gaurav Soni, also known as Bhushan, to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment for the kidnapping and rape of a minor girl. The court, presided over by Additional Sessions Judge-cum-Special Judge (POCSO) Amit Garg, also imposed a substantial fine of Rs 1,75,000 on the accused, underscoring the gravity of crimes against children.
Details of the Case and Court Proceedings
The case originated in August 2023 when a complaint was filed at the Fatehabad City police station by the victim, a minor girl. According to the prosecution led by District Attorney Devendra Mittal, the incident involved severe intimidation tactics, including threats of death and the dissemination of viral videos to coerce and silence the victim. The victim alleged that Gaurav Soni, a resident of Azad Nagar in Fatehabad, kidnapped and raped her, exploiting these threats to prevent her from reporting the crime.
During the trial, the police presented compelling scientific evidence and witness statements that were thoroughly examined in court. Judge Amit Garg found this evidence credible and sufficient to establish guilt beyond reasonable doubt. The court convicted Gaurav Soni under the stringent provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, which is specifically designed to address sexual crimes against minors with enhanced penalties.
Legal Implications and Sentencing Rationale
The sentencing reflects the court's firm stance on protecting children from sexual violence. In addition to the 20-year prison term, the imposition of a Rs 1,75,000 fine serves as both a punitive measure and a deterrent against similar offences. The court emphasized that such crimes warrant severe punishment to uphold justice and safeguard vulnerable minors in society.
This verdict highlights the effectiveness of fast-track courts in expediting justice in sensitive cases, particularly those involving minors under the POCSO Act. It also underscores the importance of robust evidence collection, including scientific methods and witness testimonies, in securing convictions in heinous crimes.
The case has drawn attention to the broader issue of child safety and legal enforcement in Haryana, with authorities reaffirming their commitment to prosecuting offenders under strict laws. The successful conclusion of this trial may encourage other victims to come forward and seek justice, reinforcing the legal framework designed to combat sexual offences against children.
