Jajpur POCSO Court Sentences Man to Life for Raping 8-Year-Old Girl

Jajpur: A POCSO court in Jajpur has delivered a landmark verdict in a case involving the rape of an 8-year-old girl. The principal accused, Kalia aka Arakhita Parida (52), has been sentenced to life imprisonment and fined Rs. 2 lakh. Additionally, the court awarded Rs. 5 lakh as compensation to the victim.

The case, registered on October 24, 2024, was initiated following a complaint filed by the victim’s mother. During the investigation, the police arrested the principal accused along with 10 others who were allegedly involved in harboring him. The charge sheet was submitted under Section 65(2)/351(3) BNS read with Section 6 of the POCSO Act against the principal accused and relevant provisions against the other accused.

The trial commenced on January 4, 2025, and after months of proceedings, the court pronounced the judgment on September 19, 2025. The court held the principal accused guilty of the heinous crime, ensuring that justice was delivered in a timely manner.

Police authorities were commended for their swift action in apprehending the accused and ensuring the case progressed efficiently through the judicial process. The verdict highlights the commitment of law enforcement agencies and the judiciary in Odisha to safeguard the rights and safety of children and to deliver strict accountability for crimes against minors.