A special POCSO court in Dehradun has sentenced school van driver Salman, 38, to 5 years in prison in the sexual abuse case involving a 7-year-old student. The court also imposed a 35 thousand rupee fine and ordered compensation of one lakh rupees for the child.

Special Judge (POCSO) Kusum Shani delivered the sentence. The case involved allegations of sexual abuse, physical assault and threats against the Class 3 student, who lived in Premnagar.

How the case came to light

The child travelled alone in a van from her home to Premnagar Gate. She then waited for 20–25 minutes for another van. Prosecutors said the abuse took place during this waiting period.

According to the prosecution, Salman applied liquid to the child’s forehead and body and touched her private parts. He also allegedly took her into a room, removed his own clothes and pressured her to undress.

The prosecution further told the court that Salman beat the child with a stick when she resisted. It also alleged that he held a knife and blade near her throat and threatened to kill her parents and sell children’s organs.

The child’s family became aware of the abuse after noticing that she had become withdrawn and afraid to attend school. Her father filed a case at Patel Nagar police station on 20 October 2022.

Investigation and court proceedings

Police arrested Salman on 21 October 2022. The prosecution presented 8 witnesses during the trial, including the child, her parents and members of the Child Welfare Committee.

The court found Salman guilty under the POCSO Act and awarded the prison sentence and fine. It also directed the District Legal Services Authority to arrange the one lakh rupee compensation for the victim.

The sentence establishes the court’s decision in this case. The child’s identity has not been disclosed, in line with legal protections for survivors of sexual offences.

Conclusion

The Dehradun POCSO court sentenced school van driver Salman to 5 years in prison, imposed a 35 thousand rupee fine and directed one lakh rupees in compensation for the 7-year-old victim.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What sentence did the Dehradun court impose?

The court sentenced school van driver Salman to 5 years in prison and imposed a 35 thousand rupee fine.

Q. How much compensation was ordered for the child?

The court directed that the victim receive one lakh rupees in compensation through the District Legal Services Authority.

Q. When was the case registered?

The child’s father filed the case at Patel Nagar police station on 20 October 2022.

Q. When was the accused arrested?

Police arrested Salman on 21 October 2022.

Q. Who testified during the trial?

The prosecution presented 8 witnesses, including the child, her parents and Child Welfare Committee members.

Q. Which law was involved in the case?

The court sentenced Salman under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, commonly known as the POCSO Act.