A Special POCSO Court in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, convicted a 24-year-old man for committing aggravated penetrative sexual assault and rape on a 2½-year-old girl. After examining the evidence and hearing the case, the court found the accused guilty and sentenced him to 30 years of rigorous imprisonment.
The case was heard by Saroj Kumar Sahoo, Ad-hoc Additional Sessions Judge, Fast Track Special Court (POCSO), Bhubaneswar. The court observed that crimes against children are among the gravest offences. It was tried under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, a special law enacted to protect children from sexual abuse and exploitation. Since the victim was a very young child, the offence was treated as an aggravated form of sexual assault, which attracts stricter punishment under the law.
The court observed that crimes against children are extremely serious and have long-lasting physical and psychological effects on the victim. While awarding the sentence, the judge emphasized the need to protect children and ensure that those who commit such offences face severe legal consequences.
In this case State of Odisha V. Kanha @ Santosh Khuntia highlights the importance of special courts established under the POCSO Act, which are designed to handle child sexual abuse cases in a sensitive and speedy manner. Such courts aim to ensure that victims receive justice without unnecessary delay and that the legal process remains child-friendly.
The sentence of 30 years’ rigorous imprisonment demonstrates the seriousness with which Indian courts treat offences involving sexual violence against children. It serves as a deterrent to potential offenders.
Case Title: State of Odisha v. Kanha @ Santosh Khuntia (2026)