Daijiworld Media Network – Solapur

Solapur, Nov 14: In a major judgment, the District and Sessions Court in Solapur has sentenced a 48-year-old schoolteacher to life imprisonment till natural death for sexually assaulting a minor girl, after CCTV footage secretly installed by a vigilant farmer exposed the crime.

The accused, Dhanaji Sopan Ingle, was teaching at a school in Mohol taluk and allegedly targeted girl students attending his class. His suspicious behaviour came to the notice of a farmer working on land beside the school. Sensing something amiss, the farmer monitored the teacher for a few days and on April 15, 2023, installed a hidden CCTV camera inside the classroom with the help of his brother.

The footage reportedly captured Ingle sexually assaulting a student. The farmer immediately shared the video with the headmaster, teachers and several parents, after which the teacher’s actions came to light. When questioned, Ingle confessed to the offence and apologised. The girls later confirmed that the teacher had assaulted them multiple times.

Following a complaint filed by one of the parents, Mohol Police registered a case and filed a chargesheet. However, due to fear of the accused and concern for their daughter’s future, the survivor and her parents initially refused to record their court statement and submitted in writing that they did not wish to testify. Despite this, police pressed ahead with the investigation.

During the trial, the testimonies of the complainant, another survivor, the farmer and his brother proved crucial. After hearing both sides, District and Sessions Judge D. N. Suravase convicted Ingle and awarded him life imprisonment till natural death along with a fine of Rs 50,000, to be paid as compensation to the survivor. The prosecution was represented by Adv. Sheetal Doke on behalf of the State.

The verdict is being seen as a strong message against sexual crimes in educational institutions and a reminder that strict action will be taken.