DIMAPUR, MAY 30 (NPN): Fast Track Special Court, Dimapur, has convicted one Pipenthung Lotha alias Dipen Mech for sexually assaulting a minor girl and criminal intimidation, sentencing him to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment under Section 376 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and three years under Section 506 IPC.
Fast track special court special judge Khesheli Chishi ordered that both sentences run concurrently at Central Jail, Dimapur.
The case was investigated by SI Tsukhumla of the Women Police Station, Dimapur, who collected witness statements and medical and forensic evidence that formed the basis of the prosecution’s case.
During the trial, special public prosecutor Imlimongla presented forensic evidence, including a report from the central forensic science laboratory (CFSL), which linked the accused to the offence and supported the prosecution’s case.
The defence argued that the relationship was consensual and challenged age-related documents produced before the court. While the court granted a technical discharge under provisions of the POCSO Act due to deficiencies in the birth certificate and ossification report formats, it rejected the defence’s claim of consent and proceeded to convict the accused under the IPC.
The court also took note of the survivor’s testimony and conduct during the proceedings, observing that her trauma and fear were consistent with the prosecution’s case.
During his examination under Section 313 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), the accused denied the allegations but did not produce evidence sufficient to rebut the prosecution’s case.
In its judgment, the court held that the prosecution had established the charges beyond reasonable doubt and underscored the importance of scientific evidence and a thorough investigation in securing justice
Monday, June 1, 2026