Idukki : A fast track court at Painavu has sentenced a man to 25 years’ rigorous imprisonment for sexually assaulting a minor girl after befriending her on social media. Judge Nobel D S also imposed a fine of Rs 2.20 lakh on the accused R Amal, 25, of Sooranad, Kollam.
Though the sentences awarded under various sections are to be served concurrently, the accused will have to undergo a maximum of 20 years’ imprisonment. Kanjir Police registered the case in 2023.
The accused, who befriended the girl from Idukki, sexually assaulted her several times at her house and on another occasion at Vagamon, according to the prosecution. The girl later began distancing herself from the accused after becoming suspicious of his character. He then stole her mobile phone; following which she filed a police complaint. The sexual assault incidents came to light during the police investigation into the theft case. The court ordered that the fine amount be paid to the survivor. In case he fails to pay the fine, the accused will have to undergo additional imprisonment. The court also recommended that the District Legal Services Authority provide adequate compensation to the girl. The investigation was conducted by then police officers E K Soljimon and Sunil V R. ASI Asha P K assisted the prosecution proceedings. Special public prosecutor Shijomon Joseph Kandathinkara appeared for the prosecution.