Chikkamagaluru Court Convicts Man, Awards 20-Year Rigorous Imprisonment for Sexual Assault of Minor

A court in Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka, has convicted a 30-year-old man for the sexual assault of a minor girl and sentenced him to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment. The judgement was delivered by the Additional District and Sessions Judge of the Fast Track Special Court (FTSC-1) in the district.

The case dates back to November 2024, when the Kalasa police registered an FIR against Anil Poojari under relevant sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The POCSO Act, enacted in 2012, is a comprehensive law designed to address sexual abuse against children, prescribing stringent punishments and child-friendly procedures during investigation and trial.

The investigation was conducted by M.G. Balaji Singh, Deputy Superintendent of Police, Koppa sub-division. After gathering evidence and recording statements, the investigating officer filed a chargesheet before the court, leading to the commencement of trial.

During the trial, the prosecution examined witnesses and presented forensic and documentary evidence to establish the guilt of the accused. The special public prosecutor, B. Bharath Kumar, represented the state and argued the case. The court, after hearing both sides, found Anil Poojari guilty of the charged offences.

In addition to the 20-year rigorous imprisonment term, the court imposed a fine of ₹25,000 on the convict. The court also invoked the Karnataka Victim Compensation Scheme and directed that a compensation of ₹4 lakh be awarded to the victim. Such compensation is meant to aid in the rehabilitation and recovery of survivors of sexual violence, covering medical expenses, counselling, and educational support.

The use of a Fast Track Special Court in this case reflects the efforts under the centrally sponsored scheme to expedite trials of POCSO cases and reduce the pendency of such sensitive matters. The conviction underscores the legal framework’s commitment to protecting children and holding offenders accountable.

Authorities have reiterated the importance of reporting such crimes and extending support to survivors, while emphasising that the identity of the victim remains confidential as per law.