Couple Sentenced to Death for Child Exploitation in Uttar Pradesh
In a significant ruling, a couple from Uttar Pradesh has been handed the death penalty after being found guilty of sexually abusing 33 boys over a decade-long span. The heinous nature of their crimes involved not only the abuse of minors as young as three years old but also the sale of distressing photographs and videos through the dark web to buyers in 47 different countries.
Horrific Crimes Unveiled
The case was presided over by Additional District Judge PK Mishra at the Banda court. He characterized the crimes as “rarest of rare,” emphasizing the extreme level of physical and psychological trauma inflicted on the victims. Many of the boys required hospitalization due to injuries sustained during the abuse. Some even faced long-term issues, such as developing squint eyes as a result of their ordeal.
Mishra’s judgment outlined that the scale and severity of these crimes, coupled with the moral depravity of the convicts, left no room for rehabilitation. He stated that imposing the utmost judicial penalty was essential to ensure justice for the victims and serve as a deterrent against such appalling behavior.
A Decade of Abuse
The investigations revealed that Ram Bhawan, a former junior engineer with the Uttar Pradesh Irrigation department, and his wife Durgavati were active in the Banda and Chitrakoot regions between 2010 and 2020. Utilizing online platforms, Bhawan lured children with the promise of video games and gifts, only to sexually abuse them at their rented residence. The couple documented these acts, selling the recordings on the dark web.
Their criminal activities came to light following an alert from Interpol to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) about the circulation of child sexual abuse content online. This prompted CBI to initiate a probe, leading to a formal FIR registered on October 31, 2020.
Thorough Investigation
Following their arrest, the CBI filed a charge sheet in 2021, rapidly building a strong case against the couple. They collaborated with a medical team from AIIMS Delhi to evaluate the injuries of 25 of the affected children, demonstrating the severe physical harm caused by Bhawan and Durgavati. This meticulous investigation ultimately contributed to the overwhelming evidence that warranted the death penalty.
Emphasis on Survivor Support
In addition to delivering the capital punishment, the court directed the Uttar Pradesh government to take immediate steps for the survivors’ rehabilitation. This includes providing psychological support and ensuring a secure future for the affected children. Furthermore, the court mandated that the families of the victims receive financial assistance amounting to ₹10 lakh, underscoring the need for comprehensive care and support systems for those who endured such trauma.
As society processes this tragic case, it is crucial to remember the importance of protecting vulnerable children and ensuring that justice is served against those who exploit them.
