The Additional District Judge and Special POCSO Court in Kandhamal district has sentenced Ananta Kudei (31) to life imprisonment for the rape of a six-year-old girl in Gochhapada police station area.
The verdict was delivered after a fast-tracked trial that concluded within two months and five days, based on compelling witness testimonies and forensic evidence.
The incident occurred on April 16, 2025, when the accused sexually assaulted the minor during the afternoon. Alerted by the victim’s family, villagers rushed to the scene, rescued the child, and apprehended the accused. A formal complaint was lodged at Gochhapada police station, following which Ananta Kudei was arrested and produced before the court.
In addition to the life sentence, the court imposed a fine of Rs 60,000 on the convict. It also directed the District Legal Services Authority to provide Rs 7 lakh as compassionate compensation to the victim to aid her recovery and rehabilitation.
The case was investigated under the supervision of Kandhamal SP B.C. Harisha, with Sub-Inspector Chiranjeeb Behera leading the inquiry. Government Prosecutor Asim Kumar Praharaj successfully argued the case, ensuring justice was served swiftly and decisively.
