Sexual assault of minor: accused awarded 65 years of RI and fine

In a case of sexual assault of a minor girl, a special fast-track POCSO court in Kodungalloor has sentenced the accused to a total of 65 years of rigorous imprisonment under various sections, along with a fine of ₹1,35,000.

The accused, Jishnu, 28, of Kodungalloor, was convicted and sentenced by special POCSO court Judge V. Vinitha. The court ordered that the fine amount, once recovered, be paid to the survivor as compensation. In case of default in payment of fine, the accused will have to undergo more than 10 additional years of rigorous imprisonment.

According to the prosecution, the accused, with the intent to sexually assault the girl who was below 15 years of age, lured her by feigning romantic interest and subjected her to repeated sexual abuse. The incident came to light after the survivor disclosed the abuse to her family, following which a complaint was lodged with the Mathilakam police.

The investigation was jointly conducted by the then Station House Officer T. K. Shaiju and Sub-Inspector Lalson, who subsequently filed the chargesheet before the court. The prosecution was represented by Special Public Prosecutor Sulal K.S.