The Nabarangpur POCSO Court sentenced Dharanidhar Giri to 20 years in prison for raping a minor girl and forcing her into abortion. Judge Basudev Acharya also imposed a fine of Rs 30,000, with an additional one-year jail term if unpaid.
The court directed the District Legal Services Authority to provide Rs 7 lakh compensation to the survivor.
According to the complaint filed by the victim’s mother at Tentulikhunti police station, Giri lured the minor into a relationship and repeatedly engaged in sexual activity. The girl became seven months pregnant, and Giri arranged for an abortion before abandoning her. Later, he promised to take responsibility in front of villagers but eventually expelled her from his home.
Police registered Case No. 141/26 on October 17 after the mother’s written complaint. Officers arrested Giri on October 22 and produced him in court. During the trial, 18 witnesses testified, and evidence confirmed the charges. Based on these testimonies, Judge Acharya delivered the verdict, emphasising strict punishment under the POCSO Act.
Public Prosecutor Mrutyunjaya Maharana represented the government in the case. The judgment highlighted the seriousness of crimes against minors and reinforced the importance of justice for survivors.
