A Chandigarh district court has sentenced a man to 30 years of imprisonment for kidnapping and committing a serious offence against an eight-year-old girl in 2023, observing that the crime reflected a “wicked and evil intent” towards a minor.
Additional District and Sessions Judge Dr Yashika convicted the accused under Sections 323, 342, 363 and 366 of the Indian Penal Code, along with Section 6 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The court also imposed a fine of ₹72,000.
Compensation recommended for victim
While delivering the judgment, the court noted that no monetary relief could undo the trauma suffered by the child at such a young age. However, under Section 33(8) of the POCSO Act, the judge recommended ₹4 lakh as compensation to be awarded by the District Legal Services Authority, Chandigarh, under the UT Chandigarh Victim Assistance Scheme, 2018.
Prosecution outlines incident
According to the prosecution, the case was registered on January 11, 2023, following a complaint by the victim’s family. The accused, a 22-year-old resident of the same locality, allegedly lured the child under a false pretext and confined her in his room, where she was subjected to physical harm.
The child managed to escape and immediately informed her family, following which an FIR was registered at the Mauli Jagran police station under relevant provisions of law.
Court rejects plea for leniency
During sentencing, the defence sought leniency, citing the accused’s family responsibilities and lack of prior criminal record. The prosecution countered that awarding a lighter punishment would undermine public confidence in the justice system.
Agreeing with the prosecution, the court observed that offences against children have long-lasting physical, emotional and psychological consequences. The judge stressed that children are the future of the nation and must be protected, adding that punishment in such cases must act as a strong deterrent.
“The hand of justice need not be tempered with mercy in matters involving serious crimes against children,” the court observed.
Investigations and legal proceedings in the case have now concluded.