Kottayam, Kerala: In a significant achievement reflecting the firm commitment of the Kerala Police to protect children and ensure justice for vulnerable communities, a stepfather accused of sexually assaulting a minor girl belonging to the Scheduled Caste has been sentenced to 19 years of rigorous imprisonment along with a fine of ₹50,000.
The Hon’ble Erattupetta Fast Track Special Court (POCSO), presided over by Judge Smt. Roshan Thomas, convicted the accused, Sunil Kumar (41) of Koovappally village, Kanjirappally taluk, under relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code, POCSO Act, and SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The court further ordered that ₹40,000 from the fine amount be paid to the survivor as compensation.
The incident occurred on March 28, 2024, and the case was promptly registered at Mundakkayam Police Station. The investigation was effectively carried out under the leadership of SHO Mr. Trideepchandran and supervised by DySP Mr. Anil Kumar, Kanjirappally. The accused was arrested, and a detailed investigation was completed, culminating in the filing of a comprehensive charge sheet before the court.
Despite the accused absconding during the trial, the alert Mundakkayam Police traced, arrested, and produced him before the court, ensuring that the trial proceeded without obstruction. During the course of the trial, the prosecution examined 17 witnesses and produced 16 documents to substantiate the case. Special Public Prosecutor Adv. Jose Mathew Thayyil effectively presented the prosecution’s arguments.
The successful conviction highlights the professionalism, perseverance, and victim-centric approach of the Kerala Police in handling sensitive cases involving minors and marginalized communities, reaffirming public confidence in the justice delivery system.
