Banda: In a landmark judgment in a child sexual abuse and exploitation case, a special POCSO court has sentenced suspended irrigation department junior engineer Rambhavan and his wife Durgawati to death for sexually abusing children, recording obscene videos and circulating them on the internet and dark web. In its 163-page verdict, the court termed the offence “rarest of rare”, observing that it struck at the moral fabric of society and the dignity of children, warranting the harshest punishment.
The case came to light in November 2020 when a central investigative agency acted on credible intelligence and arrested the couple. The probe revealed that children from Banda, Chitrakoot, Hamirpur and nearby districts were sexually abused and filmed, and the content was later distributed for profit through online platforms.
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The most crucial piece of evidence was a pen drive containing 34 explicit videos and 679 images, many of which helped identify the victims. Investigators also recovered similar material from online platforms, indicating that the operation functioned as part of an organised network rather than an isolated offence.
According to the prosecution, the accused used multiple mobile numbers and several email IDs to upload, share and sell the content on social media, websites and the dark web. Forensic examination of electronic devices established a clear digital trail, which became decisive in court.
The trial began on June 5, 2023, and the court examined 74 witnesses, including 25 child victims. Their testimonies, supported by medical reports, digital forensics and seized material, led to the conviction of both accused.
The court also imposed fines of ₹6.45 lakh on Rambhavan and ₹5.40 lakh on Durgawati. It directed that each child who testified in court be paid ₹10 lakh as compensation from the fine amount. Additionally, ₹8 lakh recovered from the accused, along with accrued interest, will be distributed equally among the victims.
Durgawati had earlier secured bail from the High Court but was taken back into custody on February 18, 2026, after being found guilty. Following the pronouncement of the sentence, both convicts were sent to jail under tight security.
In its observations, the court stated that such crimes are not merely individual offences but social crimes that inflict lasting psychological and physical harm on children, leaving no scope for leniency.
Investigators had also traced international digital links during the probe, and information was exchanged with foreign agencies, highlighting the transnational nature of the online exploitation network. Electronic evidence and international coordination played a significant role in securing the conviction.
Legal experts said the judgment sets an important precedent in child sexual abuse cases by demonstrating the evidentiary strength of digital forensics combined with victim testimony.
The administration has announced plans for rehabilitation, counselling and educational support for the affected children. Authorities also indicated that cyber surveillance and awareness programmes would be strengthened to prevent similar crimes.
The verdict is being seen as a strong message against child exploitation and a significant step toward the effective enforcement of child protection laws in the digital age.
