A court in Karachi has sentenced one Sher Ali to 14 years in prison for sexually assaulting his six-year-old neighbour.

The verdict, delivered by a Malir additional district and sessions judge, came in a 2023 case wherein Ali was found guilty of raping the boy at his Cattle Colony residence.

On top of the prison term, the judge imposed a fine of Rs1 million on the convict, failing to pay which would result in an extension in his sentence.

In his judgement, the judge emphasised the severity of the crime, stating that offences of sexual violence against minors are among the gravest crimes, as they threaten the very fabric of society and undermine the safety of children.

The judgment further noted that such acts create a sense of insecurity and fear throughout the community.

Earlier, the prosecution’s case relied heavily on the testimony of the survivor, who identified Sher Ali in court.

The judge observed that the boy’s account was “straightforward, natural and confidence-inspiring”, noting that cross-examination failed to create doubt regarding the events.

While the accused continued pleading innocence, the same was rejected over a lack of evidence regarding any ulterior motive that would lead the complainant to level such accusations.

A medical examination had also already confirmed that the child had been sexually assaulted.

During the course of proceedings, the judge also that “false implication in an offence of this nature is not a matter to be readily presumed, particularly where the accusation is supported by medical and forensic evidence”.