‘Protector Became Predator’: Delhi Court Sentences Man for Raping Minor Daughter

A Delhi court has sentenced a man to life imprisonment for raping his 11-year-old daughter.

Special Judge Anu Aggarwal sentenced the man, who was earlier convicted under section 6 (aggravated penetrative sexual assault) of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

The court stated life imprisonment will mean the “remainder of the natural life of the convict”.

Additional Public Prosecutor Arun K V sought maximum punishment for the heinous crime.

Court

The judge observed that soon after the death of the 11-year-old victim’s mother, the convict subjected his daughter to ”the most heinous crime” of aggravated penetrative sexual assault.

The Judge remarked that we often-heard phrase ‘Papa ki Ladli’ (adorable daughter), which showed the affectionate relationship between a father and a daughter. ”Still, when the protector became ”a predator”, what was the child supposed to do?” she added.

It further stated that when the safe premises of a house turned into a place of sexual assault, the child had nowhere to go.

The court, stating that if the “predator” was indeed the biological father of the child, deemed it equivalent to a betrayal of trust and a violation of social values. It emphasized that such an offense inflicts enduring emotional and psychological harm upon the child, resulting in a loss of trust not only in family and friends but also in society at large.

Compensation

Accordingly, the court has granted the victim a total compensation of Rs 12 lakh for her relief and rehabilitation.

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