Breaking Trust: 63-Year-Old Sentenced Under POCSO in Manipur
Summary of the Incident
A Fast Track Special Court in Manipur has sentenced 63-year-old Khoisnam Ibohal Singh from Singjamei Thokchom Leikai, Imphal West, to 2 years’ rigorous imprisonment under Section 12 of the POCSO Act, 2012. The conviction stems from sexual harassment of a minor in his rented home. His arrest followed a complaint on October 2, 2020, by the victim’s family. The court also imposed a ₹40,000 fine—₹30,000 of which will go to the victim as compensation—with an additional three months of simple imprisonment in case of non-payment. Time already spent in custody has been deducted from the sentence
1. Why This Case Matters
Ever wonder why a single case from a small town hits the headlines? This isn’t just a crime story—it’s about justice for the most vulnerable, accountability in society, and the ripple effects when a person abuses their power. When a senior member of the community is brought to book under the POCSO Act, it sends a strong message: no one is above the law, and no sexual offence—no matter who commits it—will be ignored.
2. The Core: Who, What, When, Where
- Who: Khoisnam Ibohal Singh, age 63, resident of Singjamei Thokchom Leikai, Imphal West.
- What: Convicted under Section 12 of the POCSO Act for sexual harassment of a minor girl.
- When (Crime): Multiple incidents occurred in 2020 within his rented property.
- When (Legal): Arrested October 2, 2020; charge sheet filed December 5, 2020; convicted July 8, 2025; sentenced July 10, 2025.
- Where: Fast Track Special Court No. 2, Imphal, Manipur
3. How It All Began
Picture a rented bedroom where trust is supposed to reside, but fear took its place. The minor lived there temporarily, and—according to neighbors and police—he repeatedly exposed himself, made indecent remarks, and even threatened expulsion if she spoke up. That’s when her family stepped in, filed a complaint, and ushered in formal legal action .
4. The Legal Journey
- Arrest and Custody
- Arrested October 2, 2020, by Imphal West Women Police.
- Shifted to judicial custody on October 9, 2020.
- Charge Sheet
- Filed December 5, 2020 under Section 5 (sexual assault) and later Section 12 (sexual harassment).
- Fast Track Court
- Case transferred to Fast Track Special Court No. 2 for speedy trial.
- Conviction & Sentencing
- Found guilty July 8, 2025; sentenced July 10, 2025, to 2 years RI + ₹40,000 fine (₹30,000 as victim compensation). Additional 3 months simple imprisonment if fine unpaid.
- Sentencing reduced by time already served
5. Dissecting the Charges
- Section 12 POCSO: “Sexual harassment” includes actions like exposing oneself, lewd gestures, indecent remarks—precisely what Ibohal did. These are taken seriously under the law.
- Victim Impact: The incidents—harassing words, flash exposure, threats—were traumatic. The victim’s courage to speak up ensured the legal system stepped in
6. POCSO Act: Guardians of Childhood
The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 is India’s shield for minors:
- Covers a wide range of crimes—from harassment (Sec 12) to assault (Sec 6)—with strict, child-centric provisions.
- Mandatory reporting by adults; failure to do so means legal consequences.
- Fast-track courts, like the one that tried Ibohal, aim to bring swift justice.
In this case, the legal system performed as intended—protecting a defenseless child from repeated abuse.
This mix of punishment, restitution, and deterrence underscores a balanced approach to justice.
Real Voices: Why Reporting Matters
While we lack direct quotes in this report, prior cases show something universal: victims report abuse because they fear for safety—whether theirs or others. In Ibohal’s case, reporting ensured the cycle was broken.
How Does Manipur Handle POCSO Cases?
- Fast Track Courts: Crucial for expedited justice.
- Women Police Units: A safe first point of call for minors.
- Custodial Safeguards: Ensuring suspects aren’t released mid-trial.
- Victim Funds: Government allocations often compensate survivors, though distribution can lag.
The system has its mechanisms—but improvements are always possible.
Comparing Sentences
- Ibohal (63): 2 years RI + ₹40K fine (₹30K compensation).
- Mayengbam Inao (50): Sentenced in June to 10 years RI + ₹5K fine + ₹4 lakh compensation under Section 6.
Clearly, the gravity of Section 6 (assault) brings harsher punishment than Section 12 (harassment). Still, both convictions emphasize that any offense against a child is unacceptable.
FAQs
1. What did the 63-year-old man do to get convicted under Section 12?
He repeatedly exposed himself to a minor, made indecent remarks, exhibited private parts, and threatened consequences if she spoke up—acts defined as sexual harassment under POCSO
2. Why was this tried in a Fast Track Special Court?
Fast Track courts are mandated for POCSO cases to ensure quicker justice and to minimize trauma for child victims.
3. How long did the legal process take?
From October 2020 arrest to July 2025 sentencing—about four years and nine months, reflecting both thoroughness and potential delays.
4. Was the victim financially compensated?
Yes—₹30,000 of the ₹40,000 fine will go to the victim as mental distress compensation
5. Are past court records of similar cases available?
Yes. For instance, Mayengbam Inao (50) received 10 years RI for Section 6 assault, plus ₹4 lakh in compensation
