The Special POCSO Court in Gopalpur, Ganjam district, sentenced two army personnel to life imprisonment for raping a 4-year-old girl.
The court, presided over by Judge Pranati Pattnaik, also imposed a fine of ₹10,000 on each convict.
The accused, identified as B. Jayes Kumar (30) and Heseldar Munda (37), committed the crime on January 2, 2025, inside a school bus while the child was returning home. Both were posted at the Army Air Defence unit in the area.
Following the incident, the victim’s mother noticed signs of trauma and questioned her daughter, leading to the revelation. The child was immediately admitted to MKCG Medical College and Hospital for treatment. A formal complaint was lodged at Gopalpur police station.
Police registered case number 2/25 and arrested the accused after a detailed investigation. A charge sheet was filed, and the trial proceeded with strong medical and witness evidence. Public Prosecutor Narayan Panda represented the government in court.
The POCSO conviction underscores the judiciary’s firm stance on crimes against children. The verdict sends a clear message that such heinous acts will be met with the harshest punishment under the law.
ALSO READ: BJD Leader Pritiranjan Ghadai’s Residence Raided Ahead of Nuapada By-Election
