What Sentence Was Given to the Man in the POCSO Case in Odisha?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
A local court in Bargarh has issued a landmark ruling, sentencing Saroj Bariha to 20 years in prison for sexually abusing a 16-year-old girl under false marriage promises. The verdict highlights the court's commitment to justice for victims of sexual crimes, ensuring accountability and support through financial compensation.
Key Takeaways
- 20 years of rigorous imprisonment for the perpetrator.
- Legal action under POCSO reflects commitment to child protection.
- Financial support for victims through compensation schemes.
- Importance of reporting abuse to authorities.
- Role of community and family in supporting victims.
Bhubaneswar, Oct 30 (NationPress) In a significant ruling, a local court in Bargarh district has sentenced a man to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment for the persistent sexual abuse of a 16-year-old girl, all under the guise of marriage, in the region of Paikamal police station during 2022.
The accused, identified as Saroj Bariha (21), faced conviction under Section 376(2)(n) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Section 6 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
According to reports, on February 21, 2022, the minor victim, accompanied by her parents, filed a formal complaint at Paikmal Police Station, claiming that Saroj Bariha from her village had repeatedly assaulted her over a period of more than a year, specifically from February 2021 to January 2022, while promising marriage.
It was reported that when the victim discovered she was pregnant, Saroj fled the village and cut off all communication by turning off his mobile phone.
The victim eventually confided in her mother, leading to a village meeting on the matter. However, the accused's family took no action to support the victim, prompting her to seek legal recourse by reporting the incident to Paikmal Police Station.
Following the filing of a First Information Report (FIR), Bargarh police apprehended Saroj on June 27, 2022.
After reviewing various pieces of evidence, the court on Thursday sentenced Saroj to 20 years' rigorous imprisonment for his crimes against the minor.
Additionally, the court instructed the District Legal Services Authority to provide financial compensation of Rs 11 lakhs to the victim through the victim compensation scheme.
In another notable ruling within the POCSO framework, a local court in Angul district sentenced a 20-year-old man to 25 years of rigorous imprisonment for the sexual assault of his sister-in-law's eight-year-old daughter on August 19, 2024.
Point of View
It is vital to recognize the court's decisive action in this case, emphasizing the importance of legal frameworks in protecting children from sexual offenses. The verdict is not just a win for the victim, but a vital message to society about accountability and justice. NationPress stands firmly in support of the rights of victims and the enforcement of stringent measures against perpetrators.
NationPress
20/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the sentence for Saroj Bariha?
Saroj Bariha was sentenced to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment for sexually abusing a 16-year-old girl.
What legal provisions were applied in this case?
He was convicted under Section 376(2)(n) of the IPC and Section 6 of the POCSO Act.
What compensation was awarded to the victim?
The court directed that the victim receive financial compensation of Rs 11 lakhs under the victim compensation scheme.
When did the abuse occur?
The abuse took place between February 2021 and January 2022.
What happened after the victim reported the abuse?
After reporting the incident, Saroj was arrested on June 27, 2022, following the registration of an FIR.
