In a significant ruling, a court in Shivamogga has delivered a 20-year rigorous imprisonment sentence to an individual convicted of sexually harassing a minor girl. Additionally, the perpetrator has been ordered to pay a penalty of ₹50,000.
The incident involved the accused sexually harassing the young girl and subsequently marrying her in 2022. Following a statement from the survivor, the Shivamogga Rural police initiated a thorough investigation, registering a case under the stringent Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
Inspector Abhay Prakash Somnal led the meticulous investigation, which culminated in the successful filing of the charge-sheet. On September 23, the Additional District and Sessions Judge, FTSC 1, pronounced the verdict. As part of the judgment, the court mandated the District Legal Services Authority to provide a compensation of ₹4 lakh to the brave survivor, a decision that underscores the commitment to protecting children and ensuring justice.