In Brief
Two appellants challenged their conviction for trafficking and sexually exploiting a minor victim under the Immoral Traffic Prevention Act and Indian Penal Code. The victim, rescued during a police raid at rented premises in Bangalore, testified about being forcibly taken and coerced into prostitution. The appellants contended her testimony contained contradictions, was uncorroborated, and challenged the victim's age determination. The Supreme Court upheld the conviction, establishing that a minor trafficking victim's credible testimony alone can sustain conviction. The Court laid down that minor inconsistencies are inconsequential, school certificates take precedence over medical tests for age determination, and procedural irregularities in searches do not automatically vitiate trials. The judgment emphasizes victim-centric, sensitive appreciation of evidence in sex trafficking cases.
The lawyer headnote and full judgment text are available to registered users.