Tantrik Receives Death Penalty for Heinous Crime Against Disabled Minor
In a landmark judgment, the court of Additional Sessions Judge-4 and POCSO Court Judge Sanjiv Bhatia in Gumla has delivered capital punishment to a self-proclaimed tantrik for the brutal rape of a physically challenged minor girl. The verdict, pronounced on Monday, marks a severe judicial response to crimes against vulnerable children.
Court Implements Stringent Punishments Under Multiple Acts
The court sentenced the accused, Sanjay Vishwakarma, a resident under the Ichak police station in Hazaribag district, to death by hanging under Section 6 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. Additionally, the court imposed life imprisonment and a fine of Rs 1 lakh under Section 376(3) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), which pertains to rape of a woman under sixteen years of age. A further penalty of seven years imprisonment and Rs 10,000 fine was levied under Section 430 of the IPC, addressing mischief causing damage.
Sudhir Toppo, the Additional Public Prosecutor, confirmed the comprehensive nature of the sentencing, emphasizing the court's firm stance against such atrocities. The dual punishments under both the POCSO Act and IPC underscore the gravity of the offense and the legal system's commitment to justice for minors.
Deceptive Healing Practices Masked Heinous Acts
The case dates back to 2022, when the accused, posing as a healer, deceitfully assured the parents of the minor girl that he could cure her with herbal medicines. Under the guise of treatment, he frequently visited her home and occupied a separate room, exploiting this access to repeatedly rape the vulnerable child.
The horrifying truth came to light on August 26, 2022, when the girl's health deteriorated critically, necessitating admission to the Sadar Hospital. During a medical examination, doctors confirmed her pregnancy, prompting immediate legal action. The parents subsequently filed a formal complaint with the police, leading to a thorough investigation and the eventual trial that culminated in this decisive verdict.
Broader Implications for Child Protection and Justice
This case highlights the alarming exploitation of trust in traditional healing practices and the urgent need for vigilance in protecting disabled minors from predators. The court's ruling sends a powerful message against such crimes, reinforcing the stringent provisions of the POCSO Act designed to safeguard children from sexual abuse.
The imposition of both capital punishment and life imprisonment reflects the judiciary's zero-tolerance approach towards offenses that target society's most defenseless members. Legal experts note that this judgment could set a precedent for similar cases, encouraging swift and severe action against perpetrators who prey on minors under deceptive circumstances.
