Archive · 23 Jul 2025
Bombay HC Overturns Death Sentence in Child Rape Case
A court overturned a man's death sentence for a terrible crime against a young child.
The man will get another chance to defend himself in court, focusing on new evidence.
The court wants to make sure he has every opportunity to argue his case before the initial court decides.
This decision comes after a review of the case where the accused raised concerns about the evidence used against him, including some of the DNA evidence.
Now, the lower court must take a second look and make a new decision.
Bombay High Court set aside a death sentence for a man convicted of raping a 2-year-old.
The court ordered a fast-track trial court to rehear arguments based on additional evidence.
The case involves a man convicted under the POCSO Act for raping a child in 2021.
The High Court considered the state's plea to confirm the death sentence and the man's appeal.
The accused argued that forensic experts weren't examined, denying him a chance to challenge findings.
- Who
- The Bombay High Court, the accused, and the trial court.
- What
- Bombay High Court set aside a conviction and death sentence for rape of a 2-year-old, ordering a rehearing.
- When
- February 2021 for the crime, and the High Court ruling was on Wednesday.
- Where
- Pune district, Bombay High Court.
- Why
- To ensure the accused has a fair opportunity to defend himself based on all evidence.
Accused
Prosecution
Evidence Presentation
Accused
The accused was denied the opportunity to challenge the DNA report findings due to forensic experts not being present.
Prosecution
The initial court convicted the accused and sentenced him to death based on available evidence.
- Accused
- Sanjay Baban Katkar
- Victim's Age
- 2.5 years old
- Original Sentence
- Death Penalty
- Original Conviction
- Aggravated penetrative sexual assault
- Court's Decision
- Rehearing ordered
- Crime Location
- Pune district