A Delhi court has sentenced a 43-year-old man to five years of rigorous imprisonment for aggravated sexual assault on a six-year-old boy in 2017.
The sentencing was handed down by Additional Sessions Judge Rajesh Kumar after the man was found guilty under Section 10 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, which deals with aggravated sexual assault.
During the hearing, Special Public Prosecutor Nimmi Sisodia pushed for the maximum penalty, highlighting that the convict had assaulted the child by kissing him and touching his private parts.
In the verdict dated September 7, the judge emphasized the importance of sentencing in the criminal justice system, stating that it is essential to strike a balance between the nature of the crime, its societal impact, and the circumstances surrounding both the victim and the accused. The court noted that sentencing should not be too lenient or overly harsh.
Based on the available evidence, including the testimony of the victim, the court concluded that the crime was driven by the convict’s overpowering lust or passion. It further noted that factors such as poverty or the lack of previous criminal behavior were not sufficient grounds for leniency in this case.
Considering the seriousness of the offense and the circumstances surrounding both the victim and the convict, the court imposed a five-year sentence of rigorous imprisonment along with a fine of Rs 2,000. Additionally, the court awarded a compensation of Rs 7.5 lakh to the victim.
(With inputs from agency)
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