Five men have been sentenced to life imprisonment for the gang rape of a 17-year-old disabled girl in Hapur, Uttar Pradesh, India. The victim was lured to a secluded location in 2024 by a man known to her, who promised her 500 rupees (£3.91) and a touchscreen mobile phone. After raping her, he called four other men who also sexually assaulted her. The attackers fled the scene, and the girl's mother reported the crime to police.
Investigation and Trial
Police launched an immediate investigation and gathered substantial evidence, including medical reports and witness testimonies, leading to the identification and arrest of all five men. The trial was held at a Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) court, where Judge Gyanendra Singh Yadav presided.
Court Sentencing
Judge Yadav stated: "Considering the gravity of the offences and the vulnerability of the survivor, the court is compelled to impose the maximum punishment prescribed under law." Each attacker was sentenced to life imprisonment and fined 20,000 rupees (£156.55). Additionally, they received three-year sentences under Indian Penal Code Section 363 (kidnapping) and Section 506 (criminal intimidation), with all sentences running concurrently.
Prosecution and Evidence
Prosecutor Harendra Tyagi noted that the prosecution relied on medical evidence and witness testimonies to secure the convictions. The case highlights the vulnerability of disabled individuals and the legal system's response to such crimes.
Location and Context
Hapur, with a population of approximately 393,000, is located about 60 kilometres east of New Delhi. The city is known for manufacturing stainless steel pipes, paper cones, and textiles. The case has drawn attention to the prevalence of sexual violence in India and the importance of stringent legal measures.
