Construction Worker Sentenced to 3 Years Rigorous Imprisonment in Meghalaya POCSO Case

Tura: A construction worker has been convicted and sentenced to three years of rigorous imprisonment for attempting to molest and rape a woman in Meghalaya’s South West Garo Hills district, following a case that dates back to 2015.

According to an official press release issued by Superintendent of Police Vikash Varma, the Mahendraganj Police Station had received a written complaint on April 14, 2015. The complaint alleged that the accused, Muslim Miah, who was working on a construction project at the complainant’s home, followed the victim, held her hand, and attempted to molest and rape her.

A case was immediately registered, and an investigation was initiated under Section 8 of the POCSO Act, 2012. The matter was later handed over to WPSI Bernadeth K Sangma for a thorough probe. A chargesheet was submitted on April 29, 2015. Following the completion of trial proceedings, the Special Judge (POCSO) Court in South West Garo Hills found Miah guilty and delivered its verdict on June 19, 2025. The court sentenced him to three years of rigorous imprisonment and imposed a fine of ₹2,000. In the event of non-payment, the convict will serve an additional one month of simple imprisonment.

The SP’s statement emphasized that the conviction serves as a reminder of the justice system's commitment to protecting women and minors, urging media outlets to share the judgment widely to promote public awareness.