Kolkata Court says "rarest of rare" case; issues death sentence to man for raping 7-month-old baby
Kolkata Court says "rarest of rare" case; issues death sentence to man for raping 7-month-old baby
Digital Desk: A special court in Kolkata sentenced Rajiv Ghosh to death for the rape of a seven-month-old newborn, describing the incident as "the rarest of rare." The court ordered a compensation of ₹10 lakh for the victim's family.
The horrible event took place on November 30, 2024, in the Burtolla district of Kolkata, and involved the kidnapping and subsequent sexual assault of the newborn, whose parents are path dwellers.
The infant was later found shortly afterward, with significant genital injuries that indicate rape.
On December 4, 2024, Ghosh was identified and arrested in Jhargram, West Bengal, following swift police action and the use of CCTV evidence. The inquiry was expedited, with a charge sheet issued within 26 days, allowing for a speedy trial.
On February 17, 2025, Ghosh was found guilty of severe penetrative sexual assault under Section 6 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
Special Public Prosecutor Bibhas Chatterjee pleaded forcefully for the death penalty, emphasizing the crime's extraordinary cruelty and the victim's severe injuries.
The prosecution provided substantial evidence, including testimony from 24 witnesses and seven medical specialists. Crucially, DNA evidence indisputably tied Ghosh to the crime, which was supported by advanced forensic procedures such as gait analysis and bite mark comparison.
After reviewing all of the evidence, the court determined that Ghosh was guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Currently, the accused is said to be in serious condition and is being treated at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata.
