The Court of Mezivolu T Therieh, Principal District & Sessions Judge, Kohima, vide order dated December 12, 2025, has convicted accused Yhunthonlo Kez, 42 years old, a serving Gaonbora of Tesophenyu Village at the time of commission of the offence, under Section 376(1), 354A(1)(i) and 323 of the Indian Penal Code. The investigation was conducted by UBSI Vikuobinuo of Women Police Station, Kohima. During the trial, nine prosecution witnesses were examined, and the trial was conducted by L. Sashimongla, Special Public Prosecutor, Kohima, on behalf of the State.
The sentences awarded are as follows:
Ten years of rigorous imprisonment and a fine of Rs 10,000 under Section 376(1) IPC. In default of payment, the accused shall further undergo one year simple imprisonment.
One year rigorous imprisonment and a fine of Rs 1,000 under Section 354A(1)(i) IPC. In default of payment, the accused shall further undergo three months simple imprisonment.
Six months simple imprisonment and a fine of Rs 500 under Section 323 IPC. In default of payment, the accused shall further undergo one month simple imprisonment.
The court ordered that the sentences are to run concurrently.
Keeping in view “the advanced age of the victim and the physical and mental trauma suffered,” the court directed the State Government to release Rs 2,00,000 as compensation under Section 357A CrPC and under the Victim Compensation Scheme. The court further directed that upon recovery of the total Rs 11,500 as fine, the victim shall be paid Rs 6,000 as compensation.
While convicting the accused, the court made the following observation:
“The offence of rape is serious and grave and undermines the bodily integrity and dignity of the victim. The victim, in this case, was aged about 82 years and was completely helpless at the time of incident which was committed in the sanctity of her home. Although the accused is a first-time offender, the mitigating circumstances do not outweigh the aggravated factors. Furthermore, he being a Gaonbura holds important customary and administrative position but has failed to adhere to the discipline expected of him.”
Abraham, Addl Public Prosecutor, Kohima, expressed appreciation for the efficient coordination among all stakeholders, “including the Investigating Officer, the Prosecution team, witnesses and support personnel whose collective effort ensured an effective investigation and a successful trial.” He further reassured that the Office of the Public Prosecutor, Kohima remains “deeply committed to protecting the rights of women, especially vulnerable victims, and will continue its unwavering endeavour to secure justice in all offences committed against women.”
