A Delhi court has sentenced a 30-year-old man to 25 years of rigorous imprisonment for sexually assaulting a two-year-old girl, concluding the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) trial in just nine days. The court held that no leniency could be shown in crimes of this nature, stressing that the law makes no distinction between digital penetration and other forms of aggravated sexual assault under Section 6 of the POCSO Act.
The convict, a friend of the survivor’s father, was visiting the family on October 20, the eve of Diwali, when the incident took place. The court noted that he had betrayed the trust of a family that had welcomed him into their home—an environment meant to be the safest place for a child.
The man was convicted on November 19, and the trial, which began on November 10, was conducted before Additional Sessions Judge Babita Puniya, who issued the sentencing order on November 20.
Court rejects plea for leniency
During the sentencing, the defence sought a lenient view, arguing that the convict was intoxicated at the time of the incident and was illiterate. The court rejected these arguments, stating that such factors cannot mitigate the seriousness of the offence.
Judge Puniya emphasised that the nature of the crime was morally reprehensible and legally severe, observing that the act had cast a permanent shadow over a festival traditionally associated with light and joy.
“The victim was in the safest place in the world—her home—but the convict made it unsafe for her,” the court said, adding that the emotional trauma inflicted on the child and her family would remain for a lifetime.
Compensation awarded to survivor
The court awarded ₹13.5 lakh as compensation to the survivor, underscoring that while financial relief cannot erase the suffering endured, it may offer some support to the child’s future well-being.
“It is in the interest of justice that crime should be punished, and such punishment must be proportionate to the gravity of the offence,” the judge noted. The court added that disproportionate punishment serves neither justice nor society, while emphasising the need for strict penalties in cases involving minors.
Swift trial marks significant judicial action
The completion of the trial in nine days is notable, reflecting the judiciary’s resolve to expedite cases involving crimes against children. The court’s decision reinforces the POCSO Act’s core principle of ensuring swift, child-sensitive justice.
Conclusion
The verdict stands as a strong message against crimes targeting minors, reaffirming that the legal system will respond promptly and firmly. The order also highlights the importance of ensuring safe environments for children, especially within their own homes, and underscores the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the rights and dignity of young survivors.