A special POCSO court in Banda, Uttar Pradesh, has sentenced a couple to death for their involvement in producing and distributing pornographic videos of minors on the dark web. The verdict was handed down on February 20, 2026, concluding one of the most distressing cases of child exploitation in the Chitrakoot region that unfolded six years ago. Ram Bhavan, a junior engineer employed in the Irrigation Department, and his wife, Durgavati, were convicted of multiple offenses under the Indian Penal Code, the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, and the Information Technology Act. The court also applied Section 377 of the IPC, which addresses unnatural offenses committed prior to its decriminalization by the Supreme Court.

Details of the Investigation and Prosecution

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) conducted a thorough investigation, leading to the couple’s arrest in October 2020. This followed multiple reports of child sexual abuse originating from Banda, Chitrakoot, and surrounding areas. According to the CBI, the accused targeted children aged between five and sixteen, enticing them into abusive situations, which they filmed using mobile devices. During searches at their home, investigators seized substantial evidence including Rs 8 lakh in cash, 12 mobile phones, two laptops, a hard drive, and six pen drives. Forensic analysis confirmed the presence of significant quantities of child sexual exploitation material.

Extent and Nature of the Crimes

The CBI revealed that the videos and images captured by the couple were shared and sold to interested buyers, including international purchasers, via encrypted platforms and darknet channels. Initial investigations identified 33 child victims, while the charge sheet included testimonies from individuals ranging from four to twenty-two years old. Durgavati faces additional allegations of attempting to influence witnesses during the course of the investigation.

Wider Implications of the Verdict

In addition to the death sentence, the court mandated both the central and state governments to provide financial compensation of Rs 10 lakh each to the families of the identified victims. This ruling underscores the serious nature of organized online child exploitation and serves as a stern warning to those involved in such illicit activities. The implications of this verdict are significant, signaling a zero-tolerance approach towards the production and dissemination of child abuse material. The case continues to be of interest as additional inquiries remain ongoing, including the arrest of an individual from Delhi believed to be connected to the case.

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