Court Postpones Sentencing of Md Abbas in Rape and Murder Case to September 7

KalimNews, Siliguri, September 6, 2024: The sentencing of Md Abbas, convicted of the rape and murder of a minor girl in Siliguri, has been postponed to September 7, 2024. The Siliguri Sub-Divisional Court was set to announce the sentence today, but it has been delayed to tomorrow afternoon. Life imprisonment is anticipated as the likely punishment, though there have been demands for the death penalty from the prosecution.

Md Abbas, aged 23, was found guilty of the heinous crime after a nearly year-long trial, during which crucial evidence, including CCTV footage and witness testimonies, played a decisive role. The case revolves around the rape and murder of a 13-year-old schoolgirl, referred to as Abhaya, which took place on August 21, 2023, in an abandoned area under the jurisdiction of the Matigara Police Station.

Despite the prosecution's call for capital punishment, the defense has appealed for leniency on humanitarian grounds, citing Abbas's family circumstances. The court has yet to make a final decision, and the sentencing is now scheduled for the afternoon of September 7, 2024.

Abbas was convicted under several sections of the Indian Penal Code, including 363 (kidnapping), 366 (abduction), 302 (murder), 376A (rape), and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The verdict came after a prolonged legal battle, during which the court held multiple hearings, with the final guilty verdict delivered on September 4, 2024.

The case has gripped the Siliguri community, which has been closely following the proceedings, seeking justice for the victim and her family. The Matigara police swiftly apprehended Abbas within six hours of the crime, underscoring the urgency with which the case was handled.

The upcoming sentencing hearing will conclude a case that has not only drawn public attention but also highlighted the severe consequences of crimes against minors.