A Kota man, 29, has been sentenced to life for assaulting a 17-year-old, citing an “evil spirit.” The court, under the POCSO Act, emphasizes parental vigilance. The accused, a Bhopal fruit vendor, manipulated the victim’s family with supernatural claims. This case highlights the pursuit of justice in crimes influenced by alleged supernatural forces.
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A special court in Kota has imposed a life sentence on a 29-year-old individual responsible for assaulting a minor, following an ordeal where the accused claimed to be influenced by an “evil spirit” to help his relative gain freedom from a similar predicament two years ago.
The incident took place in March 2022 in the Mahavir Nagar area of the city, where a 17-year-old girl became a victim of assault. The Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses (POCSO) court, on Friday, urged parents to remain vigilant and react promptly to their children’s activities, emphasizing the need for a proactive response to their children’s actions.
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The accused, a 30-year-old fruit vendor from Habibganj in Bhopal, was arrested on charges of assaulting a 14-year-old student for more than six months. The victim, initially targeted by Nihal Beg, reported the assault when she visited his house with a special request.
She sought assistance, revealing that her family faced financial difficulties due to her father’s business suffering losses during the COVID-induced lockdown. Nihal Beg, known to the victim’s family, assured them that an evil spirit was responsible for their misfortune and that prayers were necessary to overcome it, as stated by the police.
The accused visited the victim’s residence twice a week, instructing all family members to stay in separate rooms during the ritualistic sessions. In their first encounter, the girl expressed her fears, claiming that the “evil spirit” could cause harm to her parents if she refused to engage in physical contact with him. This revelation prompted her family to approach the police.
Nihal Beg’s defense rested on his assertion that he had distanced himself from the victim and would not return home. However, the girl bravely confronted him, revealing the manipulative tactics he used. The family then reported the matter to the police.
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Charged under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses (POCSO) Act of 2012 and Section 376 of the Indian Penal Code, the accused faced legal consequences for his heinous actions. The court’s decision to impose a life sentence sends a strong message, upholding justice and safeguarding children against such crimes influenced by purported “evil spirits.”
