Shopian, Oct 24: In a significant stride toward delivering justice in cases of sexual violence, Shopian Police have secured the conviction of two men involved in the sexual assault of a minor girl in the district. The case, registered at Police Station Zainapora under FIR No. 150/2022, pertained to offences punishable under Sections 363 of the IPC and Sections 3/4 and 17 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
Following a comprehensive trial, the Principal Sessions Judge Shopian on Thursday convicted the accused, identified as Yawer Ahmad Sheikh, son of Ghulam. Mohammad Sheikh, and Mehraj Ahmad Dar, son of Ab. Gaffar Dar — both residents of Khawajapora Chitragam, Shopian.
The Court sentenced Yawer Ahmad Sheikh to ten years of rigorous imprisonment under Section 4 of the POCSO Act and five years under Section 363 of the IPC, along with a total fine of ₹30,000. Both sentences will run concurrently, making his effective sentence ten years.
The second convict, Mehraj Ahmad Dar, was awarded five years of rigorous imprisonment and fined Rs 10,000 for his role in the offence.
Police officials described the judgment as a reflection of the department’s dedication and professionalism in investigating sensitive cases. “This conviction underscores the commitment of Shopian Police to ensure justice for victims of sexual crimes through meticulous investigation and effective prosecution,” said an official.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Shopian congratulated the prosecution and investigation teams for their coordinated efforts that led to the conviction. Police reiterated their resolve to maintain zero tolerance against crimes targeting women and children in the district. [KNT]
