Srinagar, Feb 17: In a landmark judgment, the Court of Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) Sopore, presided over by Mir Wajahat, today convicted a notorious paedophile, Aijaz Sheikh of Mundji village of North Kashmir’s Sopore, in a case that had been pending for nine years. The quantum of punishment will be determined during arguments scheduled for Tuesday.
The case, filed under Section 377 of the erstwhile Ranbir Penal Code (RPC), was pursued relentlessly by the victim’s counsel, Advocate Ayshia Zahgeer who told the news agency Kashmir News Trust that the conviction comes as a major relief to the victim and the community, who had been awaiting justice for nearly a decade.
Aijaz Sheikh, before his arrest, had masqueraded as a teacher and an Imam, abusing his position to exploit minors.
Following today’s verdict, there are indications that more victims may come forward with allegations against him.
As news of the conviction spread, residents of Mundji village erupted in celebrations, bursting firecrackers to mark the long-awaited justice. Many locals expressed satisfaction over the judgment, hoping it would embolden other survivors to speak out.
With the sentencing set for tomorrow, the verdict is expected to set a precedent for child abuse cases in Kashmir, sending a strong message against such heinous crimes. [KNT]