A special court in Pune has sentenced Deepak Sudhir Mandal, a 28-year-old man from Assam, to five years of rigorous imprisonment for committing an obscene act with a mentally challenged girl. The verdict, delivered by Special Judge D.K. Anubhule on May 6, 2025, also includes a fine of ₹2,000. In case of non-payment, Mandal will face an additional one-month imprisonment.
The incident occurred on October 7, 2021, when the victim, a mentally challenged girl, was sitting outside her home. Mandal approached her and performed an obscene act, causing the girl to panic and run inside. As the victim is non-verbal, she communicated the traumatic incident to her mother through gestures. Her parents confronted Mandal, who attempted to flee but was apprehended by the victim’s father and handed over to the police. The girl’s mother promptly lodged a complaint at the Lonavala Police Station.
The prosecution, led by Special Public Prosecutor Premkumar Agarwal, presented five witnesses, including the investigating officer Sub-Inspector S.A. Shinde and Constable S.A. Mane, who assisted with court proceedings. The victim identified the accused in court using gestures, breaking down in tears upon seeing him. Her statement was recorded under Section 164 of the Criminal Procedure Code, taking into account her special communication needs. The court accepted her testimony and other evidence, finding Mandal guilty beyond reasonable doubt.
The court considered the sensitivity of the case and the victim’s condition, treating the matter with utmost seriousness. By delivering a stringent sentence, the court has sent a strong message about the protection of vulnerable individuals and the consequences of such crimes. This verdict highlights the importance of swift and sensitive legal action in cases involving persons with disabilities and reinforces trust in the justice system.
The Pune court’s decision underscores the need for vigilance and justice in protecting the rights of mentally challenged individuals. The case serves as a reminder of the legal system’s responsibility to deliver justice for society’s most vulnerable members.