Elderly Man Jailed for 20 Years in Minor's Sexual Assault Case in Balasore

Elderly Man Jailed for 20 Years in Minor’s Sexual Assault Case in Balasore

In a landmark verdict, the Additional District and Sessions Judge (Adhoc) of the Fast Track Court, Honourable Justice Anita Sahoo, has sentenced 63-year-old Jayanand Sahu to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment along with a fine of Rs 5,000 for the sexual assault of a 7-year-old minor girl.

The case, which dates back to 2020, highlights the judiciary’s commitment to swift justice in crimes against children.

The incident occurred in the Basta police station area, where the accused, a resident of Bela village, allegedly lured the young girl under the pretext of catching fish and committed the heinous act. Following the assault, the victim fell ill, prompting her mother to inquire. Upon learning the details, the family consulted a doctor and subsequently filed a complaint at the Basta police station. The police registered the case and forwarded the accused to court.

The trial, held at the ADJ Fast Track Court, relied on the testimonies of 13 witnesses and substantial documentary evidence. After a thorough examination, Justice Sahu found Jayanand Sahu guilty and pronounced the sentence this afternoon. In addition to the imprisonment and fine, the court has directed the District Legal Services Authority to provide Rs 5 lakh in financial assistance to the victim to aid her rehabilitation.

The prosecution was led by senior advocate and special public prosecutor Anil Kumar Parida on behalf of the government, who effectively presented the case to secure the conviction.