Temple Priest Sentenced to 15 Years for Sexually Assaulting Minor

Delhi's Tis Hazari court sentenced a priest to 15 years in jail for sexually assaulting a minor boy eight years ago. The convict, who was a temple priest, was found guilty under sections of the POCSO Act and IPC. The court emphasized the gravity of the offence.

In a landmark ruling, Delhi's Tis Hazari court has sentenced a 53-year-old priest to 15 years in prison for sexually assaulting a minor boy eight years ago. The verdict described the crime as an affront to society.

Special Judge Harleen Singh delivered the sentence on Thursday, following the priest's conviction under multiple sections of the POCSO Act and IPC. 'It leaves an indelible mark upon the psychology of the child,' Singh emphasized, urging sensitive handling of such cases.

The court's order highlighted that the priest exploited the minor boy, who was a regular volunteer at the temple. The crime's severity was underscored by the victim's vulnerability. In July, the priest had been convicted under Sections 377 and 506 of the IPC, and Sections 6 and 10 of the POCSO Act. Alongside imprisonment, a fine of Rs 1.10 lakh was imposed, and the victim was granted Rs 4 lakh as compensation.