KOCHI, KERALA — In a landmark judgment handed down on November 29, A court in Kerala has sentenced a man to a cumulative 141 years in prison for the repeated rape of his minor stepdaughter over several years. Despite the total sentence, he will serve a maximum of 40 years concurrently, as ruled by the court.
The convicted man, whose identity remains undisclosed for the victim’s privacy, was also ordered to pay a fine of ₹7.85 lakh. The court further directed that the victim be provided with compensation for the trauma she endured.
The case unfolded in the neighboring state of Tamil Nadu, where both the victim and the perpetrator resided. The abuse reportedly began in 2017, while the victim’s mother was away from home. It was only after the child confided in a friend that her mother learned of the abuse and promptly reported it to the police.
A police officer closely involved with the case stated, “The bravery of the young girl in speaking out against her abuser was crucial in bringing this heinous crime to light.” The officer commended the swift action taken by the authorities and the judicial system in delivering justice for the young victim.
This case highlights the ongoing issues of child sexual abuse within homes and the critical importance of creating safe environments for children to voice their experiences. The Kerala court’s decision underscores the legal system’s commitment to protecting the rights of children and punishing those who perpetrate such crimes.
