Agartala, August 14, 2025: Tripura’s 44-year-old man Harikumar Debnath was sentenced to 20 years in prison on Thursday for the repeated rape of an 11-year-old Class VI student. The verdict was delivered by Special Judge Amarendra Kumar Singh in the District and Sessions Judge’s Court. Debnath was also fined Rs 11,000 with an additional four months of imprisonment if the fine is not paid.

The victim is a student who attended classes at her home tutor’s residence and was assaulted by Debnath, the tutor’s husband on multiple occasions. According to Special Public Prosecutor Sunirmal Deb and lawyer Sandeep Debroy, the incidents took place when the tutor was either performing puja or absent from the home. “The accused took advantage of the situation, targeting the minor when she was alone,” Deb stated.

The case came to light after the girl refused to return to the tutor’s house following an incident on July 5, 2023. Her family, noticing her distress, learned of the repeated assaults. The victim’s father filed a complaint against Debnath at Kumarghat police station under Unakoti district on July 8, 2023.

Female Inspector Mandira Debnath, the investigating officer, submitted a charge sheet on July 31, 2023. “The investigation was thorough, and the evidence was compelling,” said Inspector Debnath. Twelve witnesses testified on behalf of the prosecution, strengthening the case against the accused.

Special Judge Singh, in delivering the sentence, emphasized the severity of the crime. “Such acts against a minor are heinous and warrant strict punishment,” he remarked during the sentencing.

Special PP Sunirmal Deb, who represented the government, expressed satisfaction with the verdict, stating, “Justice has been served for the young victim and her family. This conviction sends a strong message against such crimes.”