SHILLONG: A Special POCSO Court in East Jaintia Hills has sentenced a man to 15 years of rigorous imprisonment for sexually assaulting a minor, concluding a case that originated from an FIR filed in 2020 at the Khliehriat Women Police Station.
Our correspondent reports that the accused, identified as Batista Paslein, was charged under IPC Section 376(1) read with Sections 3 and 4 of the POCSO Act. The case was investigated by WPSI O. Tyngkan, who, according to officials, conducted a thorough and detailed inquiry that culminated in a formal charge sheet being filed in April 2024.
After examining evidence and hearing testimony, the Court of Smti B. Khriam, Special Judge (POCSO), found Paslein guilty and awarded him 15 years of rigorous imprisonment. The court also imposed a fine of ₹50,000. Legal observers note that this sentencing reflects the judiciary’s strong stance on crimes involving minors.
Our correspondent adds that the investigation team’s work was commended for its diligence and systematic approach. Police officers familiar with the case said the conviction underscores the district’s commitment to bringing perpetrators of sexual crimes against children to justice and ensuring that such cases move efficiently through the legal process.
The case initially drew attention due to the gravity of the allegations and the young age of the victim. Officers involved in the investigation stated that witness statements, forensic evidence and procedural compliance played critical roles in strengthening the prosecution’s case. “A meticulous approach was essential to secure a conviction in a case of this nature,” a senior police official said.
Our correspondent reports that legal advocates in the region believe the judgment may encourage more survivors and families to come forward, especially in rural areas where reporting rates for child sexual offences remain low due to stigma and fear. They added that the case exemplifies the importance of well-trained investigating officers, specialised POCSO courts and coordinated efforts between police and prosecution.
Community members have expressed relief that the long-running case has reached a conclusion. Some local leaders noted that the conviction serves as a reminder of the need for continued awareness programmes on child protection, particularly in districts where children are vulnerable to exploitation.
Our correspondent adds that several civil society groups in East Jaintia Hills have urged authorities to strengthen preventive measures, including counselling services, school-based awareness campaigns and quicker response mechanisms for reporting sexual offences against minors.
The convict will now serve his sentence as ordered by the court, bringing closure to a prolonged legal process that began with the victim’s family seeking justice more than four years ago.
