Home / Crime and Justice / 20 Years for Gang Rape: Court Upholds Survivor's Testimony
20 Years for Gang Rape: Court Upholds Survivor's Testimony
1 Sep
Summary
- Two men received 20-year sentences for 2019 gang rape.
- Court stated lack of injuries doesn't invalidate testimony.
- Juveniles' cases and appeals are still pending.
A special Pocso court in Firozabad has delivered a harsh sentence of 20 years' rigorous imprisonment to two men for their involvement in the 2019 gang rape of a 17-year-old girl. The court, presided over by Additional Sessions Judge Nirdosh Kumar, convicted the two men, both in their 40s, under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Pocso Act. They were also fined Rs 1 lakh each.
The survivor, a Class 12 student, was reportedly abducted from Firozabad and taken to a godown in Etmadpur, Agra, where the assault occurred. The defense's arguments, including the claim of no conclusive medical evidence of rape and the survivor's lack of injuries, were rejected by the court. The judge asserted that the absence of physical injuries cannot solely discredit a survivor's testimony in sexual assault cases.
The court also dismissed contentions regarding delays in filing the FIR and territorial jurisdiction, noting the offense's continuous nature across police station areas. Meanwhile, legal proceedings against two juveniles, who were allegedly involved in the crime, are continuing.
