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Deaf-Mute Survivor's Gestures Seal Rapist's Fate
5 Aug
Summary
- A deaf-mute minor testified through gestures, leading to a conviction.
- Her 35-year-old cousin received a 10-year sentence for repeated assaults.
- The fine will be paid as compensation to the survivor.
In Aligarh, a special Pocso court has sentenced a 35-year-old man to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment and a Rs 1 lakh fine for the repeated sexual assault of his deaf-mute minor cousin in 2024. A dedicated interpreter facilitated the survivor's testimony during trial proceedings.
Through gestures, the survivor recounted how the assaults began when she was younger and escalated as she grew older. She identified her cousin, who had worked with the family since 2013, as her attacker. The ordeal caused her significant depression until she disclosed it to her parents, leading to an FIR and charges under the rape and Pocso Act.
The accused, who had been out on bail for nine months, was arrested following the FIR. Notably, the survivor expressed her wish not to undergo an internal medical examination, a decision respected by the court. Judges emphasized the severity of sexual offenses against children, especially those requiring special protection.
The court ordered that the Rs 1 lakh fine be paid as compensation to the survivor. Additional district government counsel confirmed the interpreters ensured factual accuracy in conveying the survivor's testimony.
