In a recent judgment, Delhi’s Tis Hazari Court sentenced a man named Akash to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment for repeatedly raping and impregnating a 14-year-old girl. The incident took place in 2019, when Akash gave the victim an intoxicating drink before committing the crime. The court’s verdict was delivered by Additional Sessions Judge Preeti Parewa, who also fined Akash Rs. 50,000 under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
In addition to the 20-year sentence under POCSO, Akash was sentenced to 7 years in prison under Section 328 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), which pertains to administering harmful substances with intent to harm, alongside an additional fine of Rs. 20,000.
The court awarded Rs. 15 lakh in compensation to the victim, emphasizing that it is a fundamental right for victims of such heinous crimes to receive compensation for their suffering. Judge Parewa noted that the mental and physical toll on the young victim would be long-lasting and profoundly damaging, making rehabilitation critical for her well-being.
The judgment also highlighted the importance of restitution for victims as a cornerstone of the criminal justice system. The court underscored that justice is not only about punishing offenders but also about supporting victims, who are often left with deep psychological scars.
Also read: UAE Launches $100M Relief Campaign for Lebanon
The prosecution, led by Additional Public Prosecutor Vineet Dahiya, had argued for the maximum sentence, citing the seriousness of the crime and its lasting impact on the victim’s life. This case is part of the broader efforts in India to enforce strict penalties under the POCSO Act and bring justice to victims of sexual violence against minors.
