Mangaluru: In a significant verdict aimed at sending a strong message against crimes involving minors, the Additional District and Sessions Court (POCSO-FTSC-2) in Mangaluru has sentenced a 21-year-old auto-rickshaw driver to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment for assaulting a minor girl and causing her to become pregnant under the false pretext of marriage.

The convict has been identified as Nagaraj Shivappa Duragannavar, a native of Bagalkote who was residing in Mangaluru at the time of the offence. He was reportedly known to the victim’s family, a factor that the prosecution said was misused to gain the trust of the minor and her guardians.

Incident and investigation

According to the prosecution, the incidents occurred on February 25 and March 13, 2025. On both occasions, the accused allegedly took the minor girl to his rented accommodation in Attavar, where the offences were committed. The case came to light after it was discovered that the girl had become pregnant.

Following the complaint, a case was registered at the Women’s Police Station in Mangaluru. A detailed investigation was carried out under the supervision of Inspector Balakrishna H.N., who later filed a chargesheet before the court.

During the trial, the prosecution presented medical evidence, witness testimonies and other material records to establish the guilt of the accused. The court examined the statements of the victim, supporting witnesses and officials involved in the investigation before arriving at its conclusion.

Court’s findings

Delivering the judgment on Tuesday, Judge Manu K.S. of the Additional District and Sessions Court (POCSO-FTSC-2) held the accused guilty under Section 6 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO Act), which deals with aggravated penetrative assault on a minor.

The court sentenced him to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment and imposed a fine of ₹40,000 under the POCSO Act provisions. In addition, the accused was found guilty under Section 69 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), for which he was awarded five years of simple imprisonment and a fine of ₹10,000.

The court clarified that in case of failure to pay the fines, the accused would have to undergo an extended period of imprisonment as per law. The sentences are to run in accordance with the directions specified in the judgment.

Compensation to the victim

Recognising the long-term impact of such offences on minors, the court also directed the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) to provide compensation of ₹6.50 lakh to the victim under the victim compensation scheme. The amount is intended to support her rehabilitation, medical needs and overall welfare.

Special Public Prosecutor Sahana Devi Bolur represented the State during the trial and argued that the accused had taken advantage of his familiarity with the family to commit the offence. The prosecution stressed the seriousness of the crime and sought stringent punishment to deter similar acts.

The court observed that offences against minors require strict judicial response and emphasised the responsibility of society to ensure the safety and dignity of children. The judgment underlined that false assurances, including promises of marriage, cannot be used as a defence when the victim is a minor, as consent in such cases is legally invalid.

Stern message against crimes involving minors

Legal observers noted that the verdict reinforces the judiciary’s firm approach in cases registered under the POCSO Act. Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) have been established to ensure timely disposal of cases involving offences against children, thereby reducing prolonged trauma for victims.

The conviction and sentencing in this case highlight the importance of prompt reporting, professional investigation and effective prosecution. Officials from the Women’s Police Station stated that awareness initiatives are being undertaken to encourage families to report offences without delay.

With the pronouncement of the sentence, the trial has concluded at the sessions court level. The convict has the right to appeal before the appropriate higher court if he chooses to challenge the verdict.

The judgment stands as a reminder of the legal consequences of offences against minors and reiterates the commitment of the judicial system in Mangaluru to uphold child protection laws and ensure justice for victims.