JUDGMENT :

(Marli Vankung, J.)

Heard Mr. C. Tlanthianghlima, learned Amicus Curiae representing the appellant. Also heard Mrs. Mary L. Khiangte, learned Addl. Public Prosecutor for the respondent No. 1 and Mr. Lalramdinthara, learned Legal Aid Counsel for respondent No. 2.

2. The instant Criminal Appeal has been preferred from jail against the Judgment and Order dated 13.11.2023 passed by the Fast Track Special Court, POCSO Act, 2012, Aizawl in S.C. No. 17/2021, by which the appellant was convicted under Section 6 of the POCSO Act, 2012 and sentenced to undergo Rigorous Imprisonment for a term of 20 years and pay a fine of Rs 2000/-, in default to undergo Rigorous Imprisonment for 2 months. Aggrieved by the said conviction and sentence imposed upon him, the appellant has filed the instant Criminal Appeal.

3. Brief facts of the case is that on 19.11.2020, the informant Mr. R. Lalmalsawma filed a written FIR stating that the accused/appellant Lalremruata had sexual intercourse with his daughter multiple times. The informant requested that action be taken against the accused/appellant, Lalremruata. An all women P.S. Case No. 47/2020 dated 19.11.2020, under section 6 of the POCSO Act, 201