Keonjhar: The Special POCSO Court in Keonjhar on Friday sentenced a man to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment (RI) for the rape of a six-year-old girl in 2022.
In addition to the 20-year prison term, the court imposed a fine of ₹2,000. The judge specified that failure to pay the fine would result in an additional six months of simple imprisonment.
In a significant move towards restorative justice, the court also directed the District Legal Services Authority to provide a compensation of ₹10 lakh to the victim. Such directives are crucial for aiding the survivor’s long-term recovery and rehabilitation.
The Additional District Judge and Special POCSO Court Judge, Monalisa Mohanty, pronounced the verdict against the convict, Sachin Oram, holding him guilty under the stringent provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
The harrowing incident dates back to October 31, 2022, in the Barbil police station area.
The prosecution built a strong case, presenting 16 witnesses whose testimonies were pivotal in securing the conviction. After evaluating the evidence, the court found Sachin Oram guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
According to the case details, the minor victim was playing near her house with the convict’s son when Oram lured her away under the pretext of showing her a mobile phone. He then sexually assaulted her.
The crime came to light soon after, prompting the girl’s family to file a formal complaint at the Barbil police station. A thorough investigation was launched, leading to Oram’s arrest.
