Khurda Court Hands Down 10-Year Sentence in Rape Case
In a landmark judgment underscoring Odisha’s commitment to justice and women’s safety, the Court of Additional Sessions Judge II in Khurda district has convicted and sentenced Banka Nayak, a resident of Tangiapada, to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment for rape.
The case, registered as ST Case No. 79/224, stems from a harrowing incident on the night of February 6/7, 2024, when the accused unlawfully entered a home under Jankia Police Station limits.
Taking advantage of the victim’s husband being away, Nayak assaulted the woman while her blind son and minor daughter were present. When the son attempted to intervene, he was slapped and threatened with death.
After a thorough investigation led by former Jankia IIC Gayatri Mishra and supported by scientific evidence, the court found Nayak guilty under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code.
He received 10 years of rigorous imprisonment and a fine of Rs 20,000 under Section 376(1) (rape).
Additional sentences included five years under Section 450 (house trespass), and two years and six months under Sections 506 and 323 (criminal intimidation and voluntarily causing hurt).
The prosecution was efficiently handled by Additional Public Prosecutor Rudraneel Bhattacharya under the supervision of Khurda Deputy Director of Prosecution, Nalinikant Maharana.
The verdict is seen as a strong message reinforcing the judiciary’s resolve to uphold women’s safety and deliver justice in Odisha.
