In a landmark verdict underscoring the judiciary’s commitment to child protection, an Odisha court has sentenced a 52-year-old man to life imprisonment for the brutal rape of an 8-year-old girl in Jajpur district.
The case, which unfolded amid the chaos of Cyclone Dana in 2024, highlights the swift action by law enforcement despite adverse conditions.
The Additional District Sessions Judge and Special POCSO Court delivered the judgment on September 23, 2025, convicting Arakshit Parida, alias Kalia, based on compelling evidence, witness testimonies, and circumstantial proof. In addition to the life sentence, the court imposed a fine of ₹2 lakh on the accused. Furthermore, it directed the District Legal Services Authority to provide ₹5 lakh in compassionate compensation to the young victim to aid her recovery and rehabilitation.
The harrowing incident occurred on October 23, 2024, when the minor girl was returning home after playing in the Bari-Ramchandrapur police station area. Parida allegedly lured her to a secluded spot, committed the assault, and threatened her against disclosing the crime to anyone. The girl’s family, noticing her severe condition, rushed her to a local hospital before transferring her to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack for advanced treatment.
It was during her hospitalisation that the brave child confided in her family about the ordeal. Acting on this, the family lodged a First Information Report (FIR) at Bari-Ramchandrapur police station on October 24, 2024.
Adding to the challenges, Cyclone Dana made landfall on Odisha’s coast that very day, bringing heavy rains and disruption. Despite being deployed for disaster management and facing inclement weather, Investigating Officer Inspector Sumati Mohanty sprang into action. She conducted raids across multiple locations and successfully apprehended Parida from the Kendrapara district.
The court’s decision has been hailed as a strong deterrent against crimes targeting children. It reaffirms the effectiveness of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act in delivering timely justice. The Odisha Police Headquarters, in its press note, emphasised the dedication of its officers in prioritising child safety even in crises.
This verdict comes at a time when Odisha continues to strengthen its mechanisms for child protection, with increased focus on rapid investigations and victim support under POCSO guidelines.
