Bhubaneswar: A fast-track special court in Angul has sentenced a 23-year-old man to life imprisonment after convicting him in a case involving rape of a seven-year-old girl.The police attributed the verdict to a prompt, scientifically-backed investigation and effective prosecution.The convict, Kalia alias Satyabrata Mishra of Similipada in Angul, was found guilty in connection with Angul police station case registered on May 20 last year following a complaint lodged by the child’s mother.According to a statement issued by Angul police on Thursday, the ad hoc additional district and sessions judge convicted the accused under relevant provisions of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and the SC & ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.The court awarded rigorous imprisonment of 25 years under Section 65(2) of the BNS and 20 years under Section 64(2)(m). It also sentenced the accused to life imprisonment under Section 3(2)(v) of the SC & ST (POA) Act. The substantive sentences will run concurrently. The court further imposed fines totalling Rs 80,000 under different provisions.Police said the accused was arrested on May 22, 2025, within two days of the case being registered. Investigators collected medical, forensic and scientific evidence, including videographed statements of the minor victim, DNA samples and forensic examination of exhibits.Police described the judgment as a reaffirmation of the role of prompt investigation, scientific evidence collection and coordinated prosecution in securing convictions in crimes against children.
