In a tragic incident in Dahod, Gujarat, a principal has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for the rape and murder of a 6-year-old girl. The girl was a student at a primary school in the village of Toyani in the Singwad taluka. Her body was found on September 19, 2024, in a suspicious condition. Reports indicated that the principal, Govind Nate, attempted to sexually assault the girl before killing her.
The special POCSO court delivered the verdict, imposing a fine of ₹2 lakh on the accused. The case attracted outrage across the state, leading to swift action from the authorities. Just 12 days after the incident, the police filed a detailed charge sheet with 1,700 pages, including testimonies from 150 witnesses.
The girl was reported missing after her mother dropped her off at school. Concerned family members searched for her and eventually found her unconscious in the school compound. She was taken to a local hospital, where she was declared dead. An autopsy confirmed that she had been strangled.
The police arrested Govind Nate within hours of discovering the girl’s body. They acted quickly, preparing the charge sheet based on evidence gathered from CCTV footage and witness statements, which contradicted Nate’s claims.
Despite the strong evidence, Nate’s lawyer has raised questions about the police investigation and claimed political pressure influenced the case. They plan to appeal the verdict in a higher court.
The incident has sparked discussions on child safety in schools, with local communities demanding stricter measures to protect children. Many have called for the death penalty for such heinous crimes.
This case has highlighted the need for stronger child protection laws in Gujarat and has drawn attention from various social groups advocating for justice. The speed of the trial was notable, as it concluded in just 34 hearings, showcasing the urgency of the situation.
The government appointed special public prosecutor Amit Nayyar to ensure a thorough prosecution. The court’s decision has been seen as a step towards justice for the victim and a warning to potential offenders.
Overall, this heartbreaking case serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by children and the importance of ensuring their safety in educational environments. The community continues to grieve for the young girl and demands accountability for those who harm the innocent.
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