Mangaluru: Hanumantappa (75), who lived in Koorikatta of Meenakaliya in Baikampady here, has been sentenced to three years’ jail term under POCSO Act and a fine of Rs 50,000.
The second additional sessions and special court in the city held him guilty of attempting sexual abuse of a seven-year-old girl from a family hailing from Hole Hadagali of Ron taluk of Gadag district of northern Karnataka, who had come to stay in Meenakaliya some years ago.
It was alleged that when the girls’ parents were away to buy provisions around afternoon on June 15, 2014, Hanumantappa, the owner of the house, had forcibly lifted the girl and taken her to his house, followed by an attempt to sexually abuse her.
The girl screamed for help, which was heard by her uncle, who came and rescued her. When Hanumantappa tried to escape, neighbours chased and caught him. The police from Panambur station filed a chargesheet in October 2014. Fifteen witnesses, including the girl’s uncle who was an eyewitness, had deposed in the case.
Judge Sarvodaya Shettigar of the second additional sessions and special court has sentenced Hanumantappa to three years’ simple imprisonment under sections 7 and 8 of the POCSO Act.
He has also been ordered to pay a fine of Rs 50,000, out of which Rs 25,000 would be paid to the victim as relief.
The judge ruled that the victim was also eligible for a separate relief from the government under the relevant laws.
by special correspondent
parabbag popi kaala….
Leaving decency and good manners aside, if a man aged 75 years can do this to a small child, then what else is left.