The judge calls crime a serious threat requiring strict punishment under the child protection law
SHAHDOL — A special court in this Madhya Pradesh city under the POCSO Act has sentenced a shopkeeper to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment for sexually assaulting a nine-year-old girl.
The court also imposed a monetary penalty and ordered compensation of ₹1 lakh to be paid to the victim for rehabilitation and support.
The accused, identified as Mohammed Ishtiaq alias Shanu, was found guilty of assaulting the minor girl who had gone to a nearby shop to buy chips.
According to the case details, the incident took place on April 3, 2025, when the child visited the shop. The accused allegedly lured her inside and attempted inappropriate behaviour.
The child, however, showed courage and managed to defend herself by biting the accused on his hand before escaping from the spot.
She then returned home and informed her mother, following which the family approached the Dhanpuri police station and filed a complaint.
Police acted quickly and arrested the accused. During the investigation, medical examination and bite mark evidence on the accused’s hand played a crucial role in strengthening the case.
A police official said, “The physical evidence and medical report were key in establishing the accused’s involvement.”
During the trial, the special court considered witness statements, forensic evidence, and medical reports before delivering its verdict.
The judge observed that crimes against children pose a serious threat to society and require strict punishment under the law.
The court therefore awarded 20 years of rigorous imprisonment along with a fine and directed compensation for the victim.
Assistant District Public Prosecutor Kubendra Shah Thakur said the verdict ensures justice for the victim and sends a strong message against such crimes.
The family of the victim expressed relief after the judgment, stating that they had waited for justice since the incident occurred.
Officials said the case highlights the importance of swift investigation and strong evidence collection in ensuring a conviction under child protection laws.
