Landmark Verdict: Death Sentence for Convicted Rapist-Murderer Ashfaq Alam
In a landmark verdict, the Ernakulam POCSO Court in Kerala handed down the death sentence to Ashfaq Alam for the heinous rape and murder of a five-year-old girl in Aluva. This verdict comes nearly four months after the shocking incident that reverberated across the State.
Ashfaq Alam, a migrant laborer from Bihar, was not only sentenced to death but also received five concurrent life sentences under different sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The court imposed a hefty fine of Rs 7,20,000 on Alam.
The charges against Alam included five years for destroying evidence, three years for drugging the minor, and life imprisonment for the rape. The death penalty was reserved for the murder and rape of the minor.
"This verdict sends a strong message against such heinous crimes, ensuring justice for the victim and her family," remarked Additional District and Sessions Judge K Soman during the pronouncement of judgment, with Alam present in court.
Notably, the court proceedings were swift, concluding within four months of initiating the trial on October 4. The investigation and trial, initiated on September 7, showcased the commitment of the legal system to expedite justice in this horrific case.
The incident, occurring on July 28, involved the abduction, rape, and murder of a 5-year-old girl in Aluva municipality, Ernakulam district. CCTV footage played a pivotal role in identifying and arresting Alam on the same night of the crime. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Kerala police submitted an extensive 800-page charge sheet on September 2, leading to a conclusive trial period of three months.
Kochi police credited the efficient use of CCTV footage for the breakthrough in the case. The child's family, residing in Edapparum, had been pursuing various odd jobs for the past decade.
Despite the swift legal proceedings, the incident had sparked controversy, with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan labeling it as an "isolated one." He accused the Opposition of attempting to 'tarnish' the government's image.
While this report is derived from a syndicated feed, it is essential to note that the content, except for the headline, has not been altered or edited by news24indialive. The swift legal actions underscore the commitment to justice in this tragic case.
