Thodupuzha: A man has been sentenced to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment and fined ₹2 lakh for sexually assaulting and impregnating a differently-abled young woman. 

Thodupuzha Additional Sessions Judge Lijamol Sherif sentenced Shibu of Kallinkal, Kavalangad, Kothamangalam, for sexually assaulting a young bedridden woman, who had lost sensation below the waist, in 2013.

Taking advantage of her impoverished background, the accused gained her trust by claiming that she could be cured through traditional massage therapy. At a time when no one was at home, Shibu allegedly assaulted her using force and threatened her.

When the woman became pregnant, the accused persuaded her and her family, stating that he would marry her and take responsibility for the child. But while she was admitted to the hospital for delivery, he left under the pretence of bringing the money, but did not return.

The investigation was completed by then Shanthampaarra SHOs TA Yoonus and CR Pramod, while Additional Public Prosecutor VS Abhilash appeared for the prosecution.

The testimonies of the survivor and a social worker, who is also an anganwadi employee, proved crucial in securing the conviction.