Mayurbhanj, Oct 16: In a landmark judgment, the Additional District and Sessions Judge of Mayurbhanj, who also presides over the Fast-Track POCSO Court, sentenced a 50-year-old man to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment for repeatedly raping his minor niece.

The convict, Sheikh Nasiruddin of Bahalda police limits, was found guilty of sexually assaulting the girl over an extended period while she was staying at his residence for her studies. The abuse began in March 2021 and continued for months, during times when no one else was home. The victim was threatened with death if she disclosed the crime.

The case came to light after the survivor got married and later confided in her husband, who then left her at her parental home. Her family, upon learning the details, filed a complaint at Bahalda police station. The police registered the case on September 26, 2023, and arrested Nasiruddin shortly after.

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During the trial, the prosecution, led by government lawyer Manoranjan Pattnaik, presented strong evidence and witness testimonies that supported the survivor’s account. Judge Santosh Kumar Nayak, after reviewing all materials, pronounced the verdict on Thursday.

Nasiruddin was sentenced to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment under the POCSO Act and fined ₹10,000. In case of non-payment, he will serve an additional year in jail.

The case has sparked discussions on the importance of safe environments for children and the need for swift legal action in cases of sexual abuse. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and ensuring that perpetrators face the full force of the law.