Court Pronounces Death Sentence for Heinous Crime
A sessions court in Pune on Tuesday sentenced a 65-year-old man to death for the rape and murder of a 12-year-old girl in Nasrapur village, about 30 kilometers from Pune city. The convict, identified as Shankar Kisan Kadam, was found guilty under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
Details of the Case
The incident occurred in August 2024 when the victim had gone to fetch water from a nearby well. Kadam allegedly lured her into his house, raped her, and then murdered her by strangulation. The body was found the next day in a field near his residence. The prosecution presented 45 witnesses and relied on forensic evidence, including DNA samples that matched the accused.
According to Special Public Prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam, the case was built on strong scientific evidence. "The DNA report conclusively linked the accused to the crime. The court also noted the brutality and the fact that the convict showed no remorse," Nikam said.
Legal Proceedings and Verdict
The trial concluded within 10 months, with the court delivering the verdict on June 29, 2026. Judge S. S. Joshi observed that the case fell under the "rarest of rare" category, warranting the death penalty. The court cited the victim's age, the premeditated nature of the crime, and the severe trauma inflicted on the family and community.
Kadam was also sentenced to life imprisonment for rape and 10 years for destruction of evidence, with all sentences to run concurrently. The court imposed a fine of Rs 1 lakh on the convict, payable to the victim's family as compensation.
Impact and Reactions
The verdict has been welcomed by local residents and child rights activists. "This sends a strong message that crimes against children will not be tolerated," said activist Meena Sharma. The victim's mother expressed relief, stating, "We have got justice. No parent should have to go through what we did."
The case highlights the growing concern over child safety in rural areas. According to National Crime Records Bureau data, Maharashtra reported 1,847 cases of child rape in 2024, a 5% increase from the previous year. Legal experts believe this verdict may serve as a deterrent.
