A Mumbai court found a transgender person guilty of kidnapping and murdering a three-month-old infant following a dispute over gifts requested by the child’s family, In 2021.
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Maharashtra: In a heart-wrenching case that has captured the attention of Mumbai, a local court has delivered a verdict in the kidnapping and murder of a three-month-old infant, a crime that occurred in 2021 amidst a dispute over traditional blessings and gifts. The case, involving a transgender person and their accomplice, has concluded with a conviction and an acquittal, shedding light on the complexities of justice and societal norms.
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The convicted individual, Kanhaiya, also known as Kannu Chougule, 28, was found guilty of both abducting and murdering the young child following a disagreement with the infant’s family over the customary exchange of gifts for blessings. This tradition, often seen as a way to welcome and protect new life, turned into a horrifying ordeal for the family involved. The court, however, acquitted Chougule’s accomplice, Sonu Kale, 20, of all charges, ruling that there was insufficient evidence to link Kale to the crime, leading to his immediate release from custody.
The tragic sequence of events unfolded in July 2021 when Chougule and Kale visited the infant’s family, offering blessings in exchange for cash, a coconut, and a saree. Upon the family’s refusal, an altercation broke out, and the duo later returned under the cover of night. Seizing an opportunity presented by an inadvertently open door, they kidnapped the child around 2:30 am, later burying her in a creek in the Cuff Parade area of south Mumbai. The discovery of the infant’s body in such a grim state sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the vulnerability of the youngest among us.
The breakthrough in the case came after the distraught parents reported their child missing, prompting an investigation that led to the duo. Under interrogation, both confessed to the kidnapping, with their trail leading to the recovery of the child’s remains. The subsequent arrest of Chougule and Kale marked a significant step in the pursuit of justice for the innocent victim.
In the courtroom, the defense for Kale successfully argued for his release, while Chougule’s legal representation sought additional time to prepare for the sentencing phase. The special public prosecutor, representing the state’s pursuit of justice, called for the imposition of the maximum penalty against Chougule, emphasizing the heinous nature of the crime.
As the community awaits the final sentencing, set to be discussed in an upcoming court session, the case remains a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the imperative for society to protect its most vulnerable members. The court’s decision not only brings partial closure to the grieving family but also underscores the legal system’s role in addressing acts of violence and ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens.
This tragic incident, while highlighting the darker aspects of human behavior, also serves as a call to action for stronger community safeguards and more vigilant protection for children. As Mumbai grapples with the aftermath of this case, the hope is that such tragedies can be prevented in the future, ensuring a safer environment for every child.
The court will convene again on Friday to hear further arguments from Chougule’s lawyer and the prosecution regarding sentencing.
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