Pune Court Awards Death Penalty to 65-Year-Old for Toddler's Rape and Murder
A court in Pune on Monday sentenced a 65-year-old man to death for the rape and murder of a three-year-old girl, describing the crime as 'rarest of rare' and marked by extreme brutality. The verdict was delivered by District and Sessions Court Judge S.R. Salunkhe, days after convicting Bhimrao Kamble on charges of kidnapping, molestation, rape, and murder.
The incident occurred on May 1 in Nasrapur village, Pune district. According to the investigation, Kamble lured the child by offering snacks and showing her a newborn calf. He then took her to a shed near a cattle barn, where he sexually assaulted her and killed her by gagging her and inflicting chest injuries. The child died during the assault. The crime came to light when the child went missing, prompting a search. Her body was later found, and CCTV footage showed Kamble with the child, leading to his arrest.
During the sentencing hearing, the prosecution cited 12 Supreme Court rulings on capital punishment, arguing the case fell under the 'rarest of rare' category. The judge agreed, noting the brutality left no room for leniency. He pointed to the severity of the child's injuries and the accused's lack of remorse. The court also noted Kamble's past involvement in a sexual assault case and his awareness of legal consequences.
Judge Salunkhe observed that the crime was committed 'to satisfy lust' and involved inhuman treatment of an 'innocent, helpless child.' He said, 'The offence was committed outrageously and involved inhuman treatment and torture of the victim. The victim was an innocent, helpless child. The murder was committed to satisfy lust, which evidences total depravity. It was a cold-blooded murder without provocation. The crime was committed so brutally that it shocks not only the judicial conscience but even the conscience of society.' He added, 'The thirst for lust of the accused is not extinguished even at such an age. Rather, it has reached a very dangerous stage.'
The court further stated that the accused acted 'fearlessly, most violently and without bothering about consequences, because he had prior experience that even if prosecuted, nothing would happen in court.'
Pune Superintendent of Police Sandeep Singh Gill credited swift investigation and coordinated efforts for securing the death sentence. Evidence was gathered within weeks, a 1,200-page chargesheet was filed, and all 55 witnesses testified. Gill said, 'Work was carried out day and night. In-camera hearings were held every day. Our role was up to completing the investigation. It had become a question of law and order. A Special Investigation Team was constituted. Evidence was collected over approximately 15 days.' He thanked the witnesses and noted that the investigation was conducted with sensitivity.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis welcomed the court's decision, stating that it sends a strong message against crimes against children.
