A 35-year-old man has been sentenced to three years in jail and fined ₹10,000 for sexually harassing a minor girl by making lewd gestures towards her. The Thiruvananthapuram Fast Track Special Court handed down the verdict, finding the accused guilty under Section 509 of the Indian Penal Code and Section 12 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act.
The man, identified as Manoj from Azhoor, will also have to serve an additional three months in prison. The court ordered the fine to be given to the survivor as compensation. The incident in question took place on March 3 and 20, 2021, in the Chirayinkeezhu police station limits. The accused exposed himself and made obscene gestures towards the child from a shop located opposite her house. He even verbally abused the child’s mother when she confronted him about his actions.
Following a report from Childline, the Chirayinkeezhu police registered a case against Manoj. It was later discovered that he was also in judicial remand for allegedly showing pornographic content to another child. The case was investigated by Sub-Inspector V.S. Vineesh and the prosecution presented 11 witnesses and 14 exhibits.
The verdict serves as a reminder that such offenses will not be tolerated, with the court delivering a strict punishment to ensure justice for the victim. The imposition of a fine, in addition to imprisonment, demonstrates the seriousness of the crime and the court’s commitment to compensating the victim.
These actions can have a lasting impact on a child’s mental and emotional well-being, and it is crucial for society to prioritize the safety and protection of children. The verdict in this case sends a strong message that individuals who engage in such behavior will face severe consequences under the law.
It is essential for parents and caregivers to educate children about their rights and empower them to report any form of harassment. Organizations like Childline play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of children by providing a platform for reporting such incidents.
The law enforcement agencies and the judicial system should continue to take stern action against all perpetrators of child sexual abuse to create an environment where children feel safe and protected. By holding offenders accountable, society can work towards preventing such heinous crimes and ensuring the security of our children.
The judgment of the Thiruvananthapuram Fast Track Special Court serves as a landmark in the fight against child sexual abuse, reaffirming the commitment to safeguarding children from such atrocities. It is a step towards creating a safer society for our future generations, where every child can grow and thrive without fear.
