Conviction affirmed for repeated sexual assault on minor daughter; Rs. 7 lakh compensation awarded to the victim.
In a landmark judgment, the Rajasthan High Court has upheld the conviction and life imprisonment of a father, referred to as "B," for the repeated sexual assault of his minor daughter under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012. The Division Bench, comprising Justices Vinit Kumar Mathur and Chandra Shekhar Sharma, delivered the verdict on February 24, 2026, dismissing the appeal and application for suspension of sentence filed by the accused.
The case, which has been under scrutiny since its inception, involved the heinous crime committed by the accused against his daughter, who was approximately 14 years old at the time of the incidents. The court found the victim's testimony to be credible, consistent, and corroborated by electronic evidence, including a video recorded by the victim herself. This video, accompanied by a certificate under Section 65B of the Indian Evidence Act, was deemed admissible and provided crucial support to the prosecution's case.
The judgment also reflects the court's firm stance on the gravity of sexual offences, particularly those committed by a parent. The court emphasized that such crimes are not only a violation of penal laws but also a profound betrayal of familial trust and societal morals. The judgment criticized any leniency in sentencing for such offences, underscoring the need for a stern judicial response to uphold the dignity and safety of child victims.
In addition to affirming the life sentence, the court directed the State of Rajasthan to award compensation of Rs. 7 lakh to the victim under the Compensation Scheme for Women Victims/Survivors of Sexual Assault/Other Crimes, 2018. This compensation aims to provide some measure of restitution and support for the victim's future.
The High Court's decision resonates with the constitutional guarantees of dignity and equality, reiterating the judiciary's role in safeguarding the rights of vulnerable individuals, especially children, against sexual exploitation. The case highlights the critical importance of credible victim testimony and electronic evidence in securing justice in cases of sexual violence.
Bottom Line:
Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act - Conviction of father for repeated sexual assault on his minor daughter upheld - Victim's testimony found credible and corroborated by electronic evidence - Compensation awarded to the victim under the Compensation Scheme for Women Victims/Survivors of Sexual Assault/Other Crimes, 2018.
Statutory provision(s): Indian Penal Code Sections 376(3), 376(2)(F), 376(2)(J), Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012 Sections 5(L)/6, Indian Evidence Act, 1872 Section 65B, Code of Criminal Procedure Section 374(2).
"B" S/o Chatra Ram v. State of Rajasthan, (Rajasthan)(DB) : Law Finder Doc id # 2862537
