Home / Crime and Justice / Pune Court: Life Term for Horrific Crime Against Minor
Pune Court: Life Term for Horrific Crime Against Minor
1 Nov
Summary
- Tempo driver sentenced to life imprisonment for rape and murder.
- Victim was 16-year-old student; accused was her maternal aunt's husband.
- Court cited oral evidence, CCTV, and medical findings despite investigation lapses.
A special Pocso court in Pune has sentenced a 30-year-old tempo driver to life imprisonment for the brutal rape and murder of his 16-year-old niece in December 2018. The victim, a Class XI student, was attacked at her residence while her parents were at work and her younger brother was at school. The driver, who was the husband of the victim's maternal aunt, committed the crime after being asked to leave due to inappropriate behavior.
Although the defense argued that the case relied solely on circumstantial evidence and highlighted several investigation lapses, including issues with CCTV footage and DNA findings, the court found sufficient cumulative evidence. The judge considered oral evidence, CCTV material, and medical findings to establish the accused's presence and involvement. The court determined that while the crime was severe, it did not meet the threshold for capital punishment.
The judgment, delivered on October 31, also imposed a fine of Rs 5,000 on the convict. The case was registered at the Sinhgad Road police station. Special Public Prosecutor Anilkumar Verma represented the prosecution in this deeply disturbing case.
