Mysuru: A fast-track court in Mysuru has convicted a 32-year-old man, identified as Karthik, in the rape and murder case of a nine-year-old girl who had travelled to the city with her family to sell balloons during the Dussehra festival. The court is scheduled to announce the sentence on Friday, October 16.
Judge Anil P Waghade of the Fast Track Special Court-1 delivered the verdict after hearing the prosecution’s case. The crime, which occurred during the previous year’s Dussehra celebrations, had triggered widespread outrage across Karnataka.
The girl had arrived in Mysuru with her family, who were selling balloons and toys during the festival. They had set up a temporary shelter near Dodda Kere Maidan, opposite Mysuru Palace, where several itinerant vendors had gathered.
According to the prosecution, the child was taken away from her family in the early hours of October 9 last year. She was subsequently found to have been raped and murdered, prompting a police investigation.
Accused Arrested Within 24 Hours
Nazarbad Police registered a case and arrested Karthik within 24 hours of the incident. Investigators reportedly used closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage to identify and trace him.
Karthik, a resident of Siddalingapura, was employed as a bus cleaner on the Mysuru–Kollegal route.
Government prosecutor Jayanthi represented the state during the trial. After considering the prosecution’s case, the court found Karthik guilty and scheduled a separate hearing to determine the punishment.
Sentence to Be Announced on October 16
The conviction marks a significant development in a case that drew considerable public attention and demands for justice. The court will consider the relevant legal provisions before deciding the sentence.
The ruling comes during the Dussehra season, close to the anniversary of the crime reported in 2025.
The final punishment is expected to be announced on October 16.
