Odisha man gets life sentence for raping 12-year-old daughter

In a harrowing case that underscores the gravity of crimes against children, a man has been sentenced to life imprisonment for raping his 12-year-old minor daughter. The Additional District and Sessions Judge-cum-Special POCSO Judge of Bargarh delivered the verdict on Monday, describing the act as barbaric and a betrayal of parental responsibility.

The court convicted the accused under the relevant sections of the Indian Penal and Section 6 of the Protection of Children From Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

Apart from the life sentence, the court directed the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) to provide Rs 10 lakh as compensation to the survivor for her rehabilitation and psychological support. 

The amount is to be disbursed from the Victim Compensation Fund to aid the survivor’s recovery and education.

The Case & Subsequent Trial:

The case was initially registered on February 22, 2020, at the Bargarh Town Police Station, after the minor girl disclosed the abuse to relatives. The ensuing investigation led to the immediate arrest of the father.

During the trial, strong medical evidence and the victim’s consistent testimony helped the prosecution secure a conviction.

The judge, while delivering the sentence, remarked that such a monstrous act by a parent warranted the strictest punishment.

“Following the allegations, Town Police had filed charges against the accused Ganesh after registering cases under relevant sections along with the POCSO Act. Later, charges were framed, and after hearing the matter, the accused was held guilty,” said D. Acharya, Special Public Prosecutor.

According to Acharya, the accused has been served life sentence. The Court has also directed DLSA to initiate measures to pay a compensation of Rs 10 lakh to the survivor for her rehabilitation and resettlement.