The court of Special Judge S.R. Salunkhe pronounced the sentence of "hanging till death," observing that the crime fell under the "rarest of the rare" category. The ruling came days after the same court convicted Kamble last week under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and other relevant sections.
Lured with Snacks and a Calf
According to the prosecution, on May 1, the young girl was visiting her grandmother’s house in Nasrapur during her summer vacation. Between 3 pm and 4 pm, Kamble allegedly lured the child away by promising her snacks and a newborn calf. He then took her to a shed near a cattle barn, where he sexually assaulted and murdered her. The horrific incident sparked widespread public outrage, with residents taking to the streets in protest.
Swift Investigation and Strong Evidence
Pune Rural Police acted swiftly, filing a chargesheet within 15 days of the crime. The case was fast-tracked, and Special Public Prosecutor Ajay Misar examined 55 witnesses, including forensic experts, investigating officers, family members, and child witnesses who identified Kamble in a test identification parade. The prosecution presented a strong chain of circumstantial and forensic evidence, including:
- CCTV footage
- DNA evidence
- Autopsy reports revealing 18 injuries on the child’s body
- Medical findings and potency test
The court accepted this evidence as conclusive, proving Kamble’s guilt beyond reasonable doubt.
Criminal History and Lack of Remorse
The prosecution highlighted Kamble’s alleged prior criminal history, which included offences against a 62-year-old woman, a 17-year-old girl, and an animal. Despite the overwhelming evidence, the accused maintained his innocence and showed no signs of repentance or potential for reformation. “The only appropriate sentence is death,” the court noted while reserving the sentencing order for June 29.
Maharashtra Legislative Council Deputy Chairperson Neelam Gorhe welcomed the swift trial and urged that brutal crimes against minor girls should attract the maximum punishment under the law.
This verdict has been hailed as a significant step in delivering speedy justice in a deeply disturbing case that shook the conscience of the state.
