Kohima, March 26 (MExN): The Principal District and Sessions Court, Kohima, has sentenced a 28-year-old woman to seven years of rigorous imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs 5,000 for the death of her newborn child under Section 304 Part II of the Indian Penal Code.
The court of Principal District and Sessions Judge Mezivolu T Therieh convicted Roshni Basnet on March 23, 2026, in connection with an incident that took place on May 22, 2022. According to the prosecution, the accused delivered a baby in the bathroom of Oking Hospital, Kohima, and threw the newborn from a second-floor window. The infant was later found in a drainage and succumbed to injuries despite medical efforts.
The court pronounced the sentence on March 25, 2026. The Court sentenced the accused to seven years rigorous imprisonment and a fine of Rs 5000, and in default of payment of fine to undergo six months simple imprisonment.
While convicting the accused, the court observed that the offence resulted in the death of a completely helpless newborn and reflected a disregard for life. It noted that although the act appeared to have been committed in a state of distress and the accused was a first-time offender, the gravity of the offence warranted conviction.
The prosecution examined 11 witnesses during the trial. The State was represented by Special Public Prosecutor Sashimongla Jamir, while the case was investigated by ASI Venus Kikon.
Abraham, Additional Public Prosecutor, appreciated the coordinated efforts of all stakeholders, including the investigating officer, prosecution, and medical authorities, in ensuring a successful trial. He reaffirmed the commitment of the prosecution to uphold justice and protect the cause of victims through diligent legal action.
