HT Correspondent
BISWANATH CHARIALI, May 9: In a significant judgment that reinforces the commitment of law enforcement to child protection, the District and Sessions Court of Biswanath has convicted Bishal Thapa (23), son of Bom Bahadur Thapa of Gohain Chapori under Sootea Police Station, for the sexual assault of a 5-year-old girl. The verdict was pronounced on May 8, 2025, with the accused receiving 20 years of rigorous imprisonment and a fine of Rs 15,000 under Section 4(2) of the POCSO Act.
The disturbing incident occurred in 2021 and was registered as Sootea PS Case No. 01/2021. The investigation was led by SI Kalpajit Sharma, then Officer-in-Charge of Sootea Police Station, whose thorough handling of the case was instrumental in securing the conviction.
The prosecution, led by Special Public Prosecutor Moushumi Borthakur, ensured the case was strongly presented in court. The judgment was delivered by Hon’ble District and Sessions Judge Bobita Kshetry, who emphasized the severity of the crime and the need for deterrent punishment. This verdict marks a decisive moment in the district’s judicial history and sends a strong message about the zero tolerance for crimes against children. The Biswanath Police have reiterated their ongoing commitment to delivering swift and effective justice in cases involving vulnerable victims.