Odisha Crime Branch Secures Life Sentence for Accused in Minor Girl’s Murder Case

Odisha State Crime Branch achieved a major breakthrough in justice delivery for one of the most brutal crimes against a minor girl.The Special Court sentenced prime accused Tumeswar Das alias Bulu to rigorous imprisonment for life in the 2017 Narla POCSO case.On January 11, 2017, Bulu and a child in conflict with law (CCL) harassed a 15-year-old girl with obscene remarks. When her family confronted them, they issued threats. Later that evening, the duo forcibly entered her house, gagged her, poured kerosene, and set her ablaze. The victim suffered 95% burns and died from her injuries.Acting on the father’s report, Narla Police registered the case under multiple IPC sections and the POCSO Act. The Odisha Crime Branch (CID-CB) took over the investigation on January 14, 2017. Investigators collected strong evidence, identified all six accused, and filed a detailed chargesheet.After reviewing the evidence and testimonies, the Additional Sessions Judge-cum-Special Court convicted Bulu under Section 302/34 IPC and sentenced him to life imprisonment with a fine of Rs 1,00,000. He also received additional punishment under Section 452/34 IPC, with a total fine of Rs 1,10,000 directed to the victim’s parents as compensation.The verdict underscores the Crime Branch’s professionalism and commitment to justice. Officials said the conviction sends a strong message that crimes against women and children will face the harshest legal consequences.