A special court in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, has sentenced Shyam Bihari to life imprisonment for sexually abusing a minor girl and offences involving child sexual abuse material. The court also imposed a fine of ₹1.43 lakh.
The conviction followed an investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into the collection, transmission and publication of exploitative material involving children.
What Did the Court Decide?
The Special Judge under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act convicted Bihari on October 30, 2026.
The offences established during the trial included rape, aggravated penetrative sexual assault, using a child for pornographic purposes and possessing child sexual abuse material. The conviction involved provisions of the POCSO Act, 2012, the Indian Penal Code and the Information Technology Act, 2000.
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The court awarded life imprisonment and imposed the monetary penalty.
How Did the Investigation Begin?
The CBI registered the case against Bihari on June 17, 2025, following allegations that he had collected, transmitted and published child sexual abuse and exploitative material in electronic form.
The inquiry initially focused on the alleged handling and circulation of such material. Investigators subsequently examined evidence relating to offences committed against the minor girl.
What Did Investigators Establish?
During the investigation, the CBI found evidence that Bihari had also committed aggravated penetrative sexual assault against the child.
The investigation therefore extended beyond the handling of illegal digital content to allegations of direct sexual abuse. Those findings formed part of the criminal proceedings that ultimately resulted in his conviction.
How Was the Victim Supported?
The CBI said its investigation prioritised the child’s safety, dignity and emotional well-being.
Counselling support was provided, while investigators coordinated with forensic specialists, medical professionals experienced in child sexual abuse cases and child protection authorities.
Special attention was given to collecting, handling and preserving digital evidence. These measures were part of the investigation into both the material found and the offences against the minor.
When Was the Chargesheet Filed?
After completing its investigation, the CBI filed a chargesheet on August 14, 2025. The trial court framed charges on October 16 that year.
The proceedings concluded with the October 30, 2026 conviction and the sentence of life imprisonment. The agency reiterated its commitment to investigating child sexual abuse and exploitation while protecting the rights of children affected by such offences.
The420 Insight: Why Does This Case Matter?
The case demonstrates how an investigation into online child sexual abuse material can also uncover offences against a child. It highlights the importance of preserving digital evidence and providing sensitive support to victims during criminal investigations and trials.
