Mangaluru Court Imposes 20-Year Sentence in Minor Sexual Assault Case
In a significant ruling, the Additional District and Sessions FTSC-II Judge Maanu KS in Mangaluru has sentenced a man to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment for sexually assaulting and impregnating a minor girl under the false pretext of marriage. The verdict underscores the judiciary's firm stance on crimes against children under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Pocso) Act.
Details of the Convict and Crime
The convict, identified as Nagaraj Shivappa Duragannavara, a 21-year-old autorickshaw driver from Bagalkot, was known to the victim's family through his mother. He exploited this connection to gain access to the minor girl, visiting her house regularly. Between February 25, 2025, and March 13, 2025, he lured the victim to his rented residence in Attavar, Mangaluru, where he repeatedly sexually assaulted her.
As a result of these assaults, the girl became pregnant, leading to the registration of a case at the women's police station in Mangaluru. Inspector Balakrishna HN spearheaded the investigation, gathering evidence and filing a chargesheet before the court. The prosecution was led by Special Public Prosecutor Sahana Devi Boloor, who argued the case on behalf of the state, emphasizing the severity of the crime and its impact on the minor victim.
Court's Verdict and Legal Provisions
Judge Maanu KS delivered the sentence based on multiple legal provisions. Under Section 6 of the Pocso Act, which deals with aggravated penetrative sexual assault on a child, the convict was sentenced to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment and fined Rs 40,000. Additionally, under Section 69 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which pertains to sexual intercourse by employing deceitful means, he received a concurrent sentence of 5 years of imprisonment and a fine of Rs 10,000.
The court also directed the District Legal Services Authority to ensure compensation for the victim. A total of Rs 6.5 lakh has been ordered, which includes the fine amount of Rs 50,000 collected from the convict. This compensation aims to provide financial support and aid in the victim's recovery and future well-being.
Broader Implications and Legal Context
This case highlights the rigorous enforcement of laws designed to protect minors from sexual exploitation. The Pocso Act, enacted to address such heinous crimes, mandates stringent punishments, and this ruling aligns with its objectives. The inclusion of charges under the BNS further demonstrates the legal system's comprehensive approach to tackling deceit-based sexual offenses.
The investigation and prosecution processes, led by Inspector Balakrishna and Prosecutor Sahana Devi Boloor, respectively, were pivotal in securing the conviction. Their efforts underscore the importance of thorough police work and effective legal representation in delivering justice for vulnerable victims.
This sentencing serves as a stern warning to potential offenders and reinforces the commitment of Indian courts to uphold the rights and safety of children. It also emphasizes the role of compensation mechanisms in supporting victims through the legal and emotional aftermath of such crimes.
