A 65-year-old man from Kuthuparamba in Kannur has been sentenced to 25 years of rigorous imprisonment by the Thalassery Pocso fast track special court for sexually abusing a girl he had adopted. The court, presided over by Special Judge M T Jalaja, also imposed a fine of Rs 1,04,000 on the convict.
Additional Sentencing
In a separate charge, the court awarded the accused seven years of imprisonment and a fine of Rs 15,000 for attempting to sexually assault the victim's sister. The case dates back to 2016, when the incidents occurred.
Details of the Crime
The victim, a minor, was repeatedly abused over a span of three days after being locked in a room. The accused allegedly threatened to kill her if she disclosed the abuse to anyone. When the girl became pregnant as a result of the assault, the man, with the help of his live-in partner, attempted to terminate the pregnancy. After failing to find a doctor willing to perform the procedure, the accused and his partner subjected the minor to severe physical torture in an effort to end the pregnancy.
How the Case Came to Light
The incident came to light when the girl confided in a friend about her ordeal. The friend then informed the authorities at a childcare center. The victim received counseling, following which the police registered a case against the accused.
Legal Proceedings
The fast track special court delivered the verdict on Friday, ensuring justice for the survivor. The sentences will run concurrently, with the convict required to serve the maximum term of 25 years.
