Bombay HC: Naik Sisters Partially Cleared of Child Abuse Charges

Summary: On February 3, 2026, the Bombay High Court at Goa made an important decision on the appeal filed by Anita and Kunda Naik. They were initially found guilty of attacking a minor in 2011. The court agreed with some of the charges but cleared them of others, including child abuse under the Goa Children’s Act.

The Incident: June 4, 2011

On June 4, 2011, a minor was reportedly attacked by Anita and Kunda Naik in Bhoma, Ponda, Goa. The victim was washing his face when he was allegedly hit with an iron rod, resulting in head injuries.

Initial Court Ruling: June 30, 2016

The Children's Court in Panaji found the Naik sisters guilty under laws related to causing hurt and using abusive language. They were sentenced to pay fines and serve time in jail.

"The victim was attacked with an iron rod, leading to bleeding injuries," stated the prosecution.

Appeal and Arguments

The Naik sisters appealed, arguing they were wrongly accused because of a property disagreement. They claimed the injuries happened by accident and not because of an attack.

• Defense Witnesses: The defense called Vera M. De P Gonsalves to question the prosecution's claims.
• Prosecution's Stand: The prosecution insisted that evidence from several witnesses, including the victim and medical reports, confirmed the attack.

High Court Decision: February 3, 2026

Judge Shreeram V. Shirsat was in charge of the appeal. Here’s what was decided:

• Conviction Upheld: The court agreed with the conviction for causing hurt with a dangerous weapon.
• Acquittal: The Naik sisters were cleared of charges related to using abusive language and child abuse under the Goa Children’s Act.
• Probation Consideration: The court sent the case back to consider if the sisters should be given probation.

"The incident was a one-time occurrence, not amounting to 'child abuse' under the Goa Children’s Act," noted the court.

Verdict Summary

The appeal resulted in a partial win for Anita and Kunda Naik. While they are still found guilty of using a dangerous weapon, they are no longer charged with child abuse or using abusive language. The court's decision shows a careful understanding of the incident and its legal details.