Life Sentence for Kolkata Man After HIV+ Confession in Rape Case

A Man in Kolkata Sentenced to Life for Serious Crime

A man in Kolkata has received a life sentence. He was found guilty of raping his minor stepdaughter. His admission of being HIV-positive worsened the situation.

What Happened During the Crime and Trial

The man, Ajay Panja, repeatedly raped his 14-and-a-half-year-old stepdaughter since 2016. He also threatened her family to keep her silent.

The trial lasted over three years. Judge Pocso Judge Papiya Das led the case. The crime is very severe. It can result in long prison terms, life imprisonment, or even the death penalty.

The Shocking Confession

Panja’s lawyers asked for the least punishment. They argued he was young and could change. They also noted he had no past crimes and was very poor.

But Panja confessed something shocking during sentencing. He told the court he was HIV-positive. This changed the case.

Why the Judge Made This Decision

The judge asked Panja if he understood his situation. Panja replied, “I am a poor man with a family. I have no criminal past. Please be lenient. I am HIV-infected.”

The special public prosecutor, Amalendu Chakraborty, strongly opposed leniency. He argued, “The convict knew his HIV status. He still committed this crime. The child’s trauma will last forever. There is no reason for leniency.”

Judge Das agreed. She stated, “The girl’s future is seriously affected. The crime is worse because the victim might now be HIV-positive. We must send a strong message to society.”

The Victim’s Brave Story

The girl suffered abuse since 2016. She spoke up after going to a state-run girls’ home in July 2021. The home superintendent, Sujata Dey, helped her file a complaint.

The court found the girl’s statement reliable. They saw no reason to doubt her. The victim’s identity is protected for her privacy.

Important Points to Remember

• Ajay Panja was found guilty of raping his minor stepdaughter.
• He confessed to being HIV-positive during sentencing.
• The judge gave him a life sentence.
• The crime lasted from 2016 until 2021.
• The court found the victim’s statement trustworthy.