In a shocking case from Kerala’s Kannur, a POCSO court has sentenced madrasa maulvi Mohammad Rafi to 187 years in prison. The 41-year-old was convicted of repeatedly raping and sexually abusing a 13-year-old girl who studied at his madrasa, tarnishing the sacred teacher-student relationship. The verdict has raised serious concerns about the safety of children in madrasas.
How the Case Unfolded
The crime came to light when the victim began showing signs of distress. She became withdrawn, lost interest in studies, and exhibited changes in her behavior and physical appearance. Alarmed, her parents took her to a counselor, where she bravely revealed the horrific ordeal of rape and sexual abuse inflicted by Rafi. Following her disclosure, her parents filed a complaint, leading to a case under the POCSO Act.
Court’s Verdict
After a thorough trial, the Kannur POCSO court found Rafi guilty on multiple charges. The sentences include:
- POCSO Act, Section 5(T): 5 years imprisonment and ₹5 lakh fine.
- Section 5(F) (breach of trust): 35 years imprisonment and ₹1 lakh fine.
- Repeated sexual abuse: 35 years imprisonment.
- Oral sex: 20 years imprisonment and ₹50 lakh fine.
- IPC Section 376 (rape): 25 years imprisonment and ₹1 lakh fine.
- Additional punishment for issuing death threats.
Although the cumulative sentence totals 187 years, several terms will run concurrently, meaning Rafi will serve a maximum of 50 years in prison. Notably, Rafi, who is already married, had been divorced by his wife due to his reprehensible behavior.
Safety Concerns in Madrasas
This horrific case has once again sparked debates over the safety of children in madrasas, with calls for stricter oversight and measures to prevent such heinous crimes. For more news please stay tuned with Digi Hind News.