A man convicted of repeatedly raping a 15-year-old girl fled from the Gandhinagar Special POCSO Court on Wednesday afternoon, moments after being sentenced to 20 years in prison.
The convict, identified as Lala Dangi, a labourer from Dholakuva and originally from Dahod, was found guilty in a case filed at the Gandhinagar Infocity Police Station. At around 1:30 pm, shortly after the verdict, Dangi vaulted from the dock and escaped the courtroom.
Despite a chase by police officers present, he managed to slip out of the court premises. The case involved Dangi sexually assaulting the minor despite being aware of her age.
The court sentenced him to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment under Section 376 of the IPC and Section 4 of the POCSO Act, along with a Rs 10,000 fine. He also received one year under IPC Section 363 and three years under IPC Section 366, each with a Rs 10,000 fine. The total Rs 30,000 fine carried default terms of 15 days&rsquo; simple imprisonment for the two lesser charges and one year for the main offence.
The judge also directed the District Legal Services Authority to provide Rs 4 lakh in compensation to the victim.
The escape has reignited concerns over security at the court complex. In September last year, an armed accused had entered the premises, prompting heightened police presence, including a sub-inspector and additional guards at the gates.
A search operation is underway to locate and apprehend Dangi.

Rape Convict Flees Gujarat Court After Sentencing

Minutes after a 20-year term, rape convict Lala Dangi escaped from Gandhinagar POCSO Court

Rape Convict Flees Gujarat Court After Sentencing

Minutes after a 20-year term, rape convict Lala Dangi escaped from Gandhinagar POCSO Court

August 14, 2025 | 01:10 IST