In a landmark ruling, the Special POCSO Court in Berhampur has sentenced six individuals to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment each for the gang rape of a +2 student.
The verdict, delivered by Judge Pranati Pattnaik, underscores the court’s commitment to swift justice in cases of sexual violence against minors, based on substantial evidence and witness testimonies.
The incident occurred on May 3, 2024, when the victim, a resident of the Baidyanathpur police station area in Ganjam district, was allegedly assaulted by the group. The girl reported the crime to her family, who subsequently filed a complaint with the police. This led to the registration of Case No. 240/24, followed by the arrest and court remand of the six accused.
The convicted individuals are: Rutun Kumar Das (25) from Aska Padhi Colony under Aska police station; Rudra Jena (24) from Babanpur Patna Sahi under Aska police station; Abhilash Palei (21) from Beguniapada Bali Sahi; Akash Nayak (29) from Samapalli under Sorada police station; Juman Gouda (22) from Kendupata under Khallikote police station; and Omkar Jena (26) from Bhutasarsing under Purushottampur police station.
In addition to the prison term, each convict has been fined Rs 10,000. Failure to pay the fine will result in an extra year of rigorous imprisonment. Judge Pattnaik also directed the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) to provide Rs 15 lakh in compensation to the victim to aid her rehabilitation.
During the trial, statements from 13 witnesses, including the victim’s account, were recorded and formed the basis of the conviction. The six accused, who were already in judicial custody, were produced in court for the pronouncement of the judgment. The prosecution was led by Special Public Prosecutor Narayan Panda on behalf of the government.
