Mizoram fast-track court sentences woman to 12 years for trafficking minor daughter

A Fast Track Court in Kolasib, Mizoram, has sentenced a 42-year-old woman to 12 years’ imprisonment for repeatedly trafficking her minor daughter for sexual exploitation. The court found the accused guilty after reviewing witness statements and other evidence presented during the trial.

The case came to light after a woman lodged a First Information Report (FIR) at Kawnpui Police Station on August 5, 2024. In her complaint, she alleged that the biological mother pushed her underage daughter into sexual exploitation multiple times between January 2023 and July 2024, in exchange for money and alcohol.

Court found evidence of trafficking for money and alcohol

During the investigation, police arrested Lalbiakengi of Kawnpui. An 80-year-old man, Indra Bahadur Bandhari Chhetri, was also named as an accused and arrested. Police said the accused allegedly arranged the minor girl to be sent to people working as truck drivers and railway construction workers from outside the state on several occasions.

The prosecution case included the FIR, statements recorded during the investigation, the survivor’s evidence, and a medical report. In court, seven witnesses were examined, and the judge also considered the documentary materials submitted by the prosecution before recording the conviction.

Sentence includes multiple prison terms and fine

The court awarded five years of imprisonment under Section 96 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and another five years under Section 98 of the BNS. It also imposed two years under the Juvenile Justice Act for providing alcohol to a minor. The terms were directed to run consecutively, resulting in a total prison sentence of 12 years.

In addition, the court imposed a fine of ₹15,000. If the fine is not paid, the accused will have to undergo an additional six months in jail. Proceedings against Indra Bahadur Bandhari Chhetri were closed after his death on February 3, 2025.