Sullia: Man sentenced to 5 years in prison for sexually harassing minor

Mangalore Today News Network

Sullia, January 21, 2026: A special POCSO court has sentenced a man to five years of imprisonment for the sexual harassment of a minor girl in Darkhasu village.

The convict, identified as M. Selvakumar, a resident of Darkhasu, Bellare, was found guilty of the crime that took place in April 2020.

Background of the Case

According to police records, Selvakumar was living in a rented house in Darkhasu at the time of the incident. On April 1, 2020, he lured a minor girl with the pretext of giving her chocolates and subsequently sexually harassed her.

Following a complaint filed by the victim’s mother, the Bellare police registered a case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and arrested the accused. After a detailed investigation, a chargesheet was submitted to the court.

The Trial and Verdict

The case was heard by the 5th Additional District and Sessions Court and Special POCSO Court in Puttur. During the trial:

* A total of 17 witnesses were examined.
* The victim provided a crucial statement in court identifying the perpetrator.
* The Bellare police provided comprehensive evidence supporting the chargesheet.

Presiding Judge Saritha D., after hearing arguments from both sides, concluded that the charges against the accused were proven beyond doubt.

Sentencing and Compensation

The court delivered the following verdict:

* Prison Term: 5 years of simple imprisonment.
* Financial Penalty: A fine of ₹20,000. Failure to pay the fine will result in an additional 6 months of simple imprisonment.
* Victim Compensation: The court ordered that the entire fine amount of ₹20,000 be handed over to the victim.

Special Public Prosecutor Kudriya Pushparaj Adyanthaya represented the state during the proceedings.