Umer Rashid
. Representational Picture
Shopian, October 24 :Through consistent investigation, professional coordination and strong presentation in court, Shopian Police have secured the conviction of two men involved in the 2022 sexual assault of a minor girl. One of the accused has been sentenced to ten years of rigorous imprisonment while the other will serve five years. The verdict was announced by the Principal Sessions Judge Shopian and is being seen as one of the most decisive rulings under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act in the district.
The case was registered at Police Station Zainapora under FIR No. 150/2022 for offences punishable under Section 363 of the Indian Penal Code and Sections 3, 4 and 17 of the POCSO Act which deal with kidnapping, sexual assault and abetment.
The Conviction and Sentences
After a detailed trial that lasted over a year, the court found two men guilty. They were identified as Yawer Ahmad Sheikh, son of Ghulam Mohammad Sheikh, and Mehraj Ahmad Dar, son of Abdul Gaffar Dar, both residents of Khawajapora Chitragam in Shopian.
Yawer Ahmad Sheikh was sentenced to ten years of rigorous imprisonment under Section 4 of the POCSO Act and five years under Section 363 IPC. He was also fined a total of ₹30,000. Both sentences will run concurrently, making his total term ten years. Mehraj Ahmad Dar was sentenced to five years of rigorous imprisonment and fined ₹10,000 for his role in the offence.
In its judgment, the court said crimes against minors shake the conscience of society and require firm and fair judicial action.
The conviction followed months of careful investigation by Shopian Police. From the very first day, officers handled the case with sensitivity and precision. The investigating team collected medical and forensic evidence, recorded witness statements and ensured that the minor’s privacy and dignity were protected at every stage.
The police also coordinated closely with the prosecution team to present a clear and well-documented charge sheet. According to officials, the evidence was strong and the investigation left no loopholes for the defence to exploit.
A police officer associated with the case said, “We knew the sensitivity of the matter. Our team worked day and night to ensure every fact was verified and every report properly documented. Justice for the victim was our only goal.”
Police and Prosecution Reaction
After the judgment, Senior Superintendent of Police Shopian praised both the investigation and prosecution teams for their dedication. “This conviction is the outcome of disciplined police work, timely prosecution and professional handling of a sensitive case. Shopian Police remains committed to the safety and dignity of women and children and will continue to maintain zero tolerance towards such crimes,” the SSP said.
Officials from the prosecution also acknowledged the strength of the investigation. A legal officer said, “The police provided clear, evidence-backed material. It made the case straightforward for the court to decide.”
Wider Impact
The conviction is being viewed as a significant achievement for the district. POCSO cases in many parts of Jammu and Kashmir often face delays due to social pressure and lack of evidence. The outcome of this case shows that when investigations are thorough and coordinated, justice can be achieved within a reasonable timeframe.
Legal experts have said that the Shopian case sets an example of how sensitive cases should be handled. “It shows what professional policing and strong legal follow-up can accomplish. It is both a victory for justice and a message of deterrence,” said a local advocate familiar with POCSO proceedings.
A Message of Accountability
The case has drawn appreciation for the way it was investigated and presented in court. For the victim’s family, the judgment brings closure and a sense of justice. For law enforcement, it reinforces the importance of persistence and integrity in handling such crimes.
As both convicts begin their prison terms, the case stands as a reminder that justice, when pursued with commitment, can be achieved. It also highlights that effective policing is not only about enforcement but about compassion, responsibility and ensuring that every victim is heard and protected.
Reported by Umer Rashid, Shopian