A special Pocso (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) court in Mathura has sentenced a 35-year-old man to life imprisonment for sexually assaulting a 12-year-old boy. The additional sessions and special judge, Ram Kishore Yadav, also imposed a fine of Rs70,000 on the convict, with 50% of the penalty to be paid to the victim’s parents.
According to Alka Upmanyu, special district government counsel, the accused, named Hukum, approached the boy when he was returning home from school. Hukum lured him to his residence and sexually abused him in a cattle shed.
Hukum was charged under IPC section 377, which criminalizes same-sex relationships, and sections 5 and 6 of the Pocso Act, which deal with aggravated penetrative sexual assault against children.
The court’s verdict comes after 30 days of trial. The sentence reflects the gravity of the crime committed against a young child and acts as a deterrent for future offenders.
The Pocso Act was enacted in 2012 to provide stringent punishment for sexual offenses against children. It aims to protect children from various forms of sexual exploitation and abuse.
This verdict sends a strong message that crimes against children will not be tolerated and will be met with severe punishment. It also emphasizes the importance of creating a safe environment for children that allows them to grow, learn, and thrive without the fear of abuse or exploitation.
Authorities and society as a whole need to continue working together to raise awareness about child protection and create a support system that ensures the well-being and safety of every child. Education, preventive measures, and effective implementation of laws are crucial in safeguarding children from sexual offenses and ensuring their physical, emotional, and psychological development.
The case serves as a reminder that child abuse is a serious issue that needs urgent attention. By condemning such heinous acts and providing justice for the victims, we can strive to create a society where children are protected and their rights are respected.
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