Mangaluru: A special court in Mangaluru has sentenced a 32-year-old man to four years and six months of imprisonment in a case registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The judgment was delivered by Additional District and Sessions FTSC-II (POCSO) Judge Maanu K S following the conclusion of trial proceedings.
The convicted individual, Mohammad Safwan alias Safwan, a resident of Shanthigudde in Bajpe, was found guilty of offences involving intimidation, unlawful restraint, and assault of a minor girl. The court also imposed fines and directed compensation to the survivor.
Incident traced back to March 2025
The case dates back to March 30, 2025, when a 15-year-old girl had gone to a public park with an acquaintance. During this time, the accused allegedly captured her photograph without consent. Later, while the girl was returning home, he followed her on a two-wheeler.
According to the prosecution, the accused used the photograph to threaten the girl and attempted to intimidate her. As she continued walking, he allegedly intercepted her and forcibly led her towards a nearby residential building.
The situation escalated, but the accused fled the scene after hearing a family member of the girl nearby. The minor later informed her family about the incident, following which a complaint was lodged with the police.
Investigation and chargesheet
The case was investigated by Inspector Balakrishna H N of the Women’s Police Station in Pandeshwara. Based on the complaint and subsequent inquiry, a chargesheet was filed before the court outlining the sequence of events and evidence collected during the investigation.
The prosecution presented witness testimonies and other supporting materials to establish the charges against the accused. Special Public Prosecutor Sahana Devi Boloor represented the state and argued the case during trial proceedings.
Court pronounces sentence and fines
After evaluating the evidence, the court found the accused guilty under relevant sections of the POCSO Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Under Section 8 of the POCSO Act and Section 75(1) of the BNS, the court sentenced him to three years of rigorous imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs 15,000. In case of non-payment, he will have to undergo an additional two months of simple imprisonment.
Further, under Section 78 of the BNS, the court awarded an additional sentence of one year and six months of simple imprisonment along with a fine of Rs 5,000. Failure to pay this fine will result in an additional one month of simple imprisonment.
Compensation awarded to survivor
The court also directed that a portion of the fine amount, along with additional compensation, be provided to the survivor. A sum of Rs 20,000 from the collected fine and an additional Rs 30,000 will be disbursed through the District Legal Services Authority.
This compensation is intended to support the minor and her family following the incident. Legal provisions under the POCSO Act emphasise not only punishment for offenders but also rehabilitation and assistance for survivors.
Conclusion
The verdict highlights the judiciary’s continued focus on addressing crimes involving minors with seriousness and ensuring accountability through due legal process. Authorities have reiterated the importance of timely reporting and thorough investigation in such cases.
The case also underscores the role of specialised courts and legal frameworks like the POCSO Act in delivering justice while safeguarding the rights and dignity of minors.