On Friday, a court in West Bengal sentenced a 19-year-old man to death for the rape and murder of a 9-year-old girl that occurred in October this year. The verdict was handed down only 61 days following the offense, establishing a benchmark for rapid justice in the state.
The event occurred on October 4 in Jaynagar, South 24 Parganas, when the 9-year-old girl was coming home from her tuition class. The suspect, named Mustakin Sardar, confronted, assaulted, and murdered her.
That night, her family lodged a missing person’s report at the Jaynagar Police Station. The suspect was identified and apprehended by the police in 2.5 hours, aided by eyewitness testimonies and CCTV recordings.
While being interrogated, Sardar admitted to the offense and disclosed where the victim’s body was, which was found that very night. Later, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) consisting of five members was established to guarantee a comprehensive and swift inquiry.
The inquiry was finalized in an unprecedented 25 days, with a chargesheet submitted to the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) court on October 30. The trial commenced on November 4, and the court listened to evidence from 36 witnesses before wrapping up on November 26.
Also read: Cash chaos in RS: Should MPs be frisked?
Mamata Banerjee hails the verdict
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee praised the historic ruling, stating that a conviction and death penalty in a case like this within just over two months is unparalleled in the state’s history.
State prosecutor Bivas Chatterjee commended the work of the judiciary, law enforcement, and prosecution in delivering justice. “Justice has been served in only 61 days.” This was achievable because of the quick actions of the prosecution and the engaged participation of all involved parties. Effective presentation of scientific and physical evidence was made, and hearings frequently extended into the night to guarantee prompt justice,” she stated.
The crime sparked significant anger throughout West Bengal, coinciding with the current protests regarding the RG Kar rape and murder incident. The family of the victim also called for the death penalty for Sardar.
On Thursday, the POCSO court found Mustakin Sardar guilty, and on Friday, Justice Subrata Chatterjee sentenced him to death.
