Victim's trauma detailed before sentencing

The High Court in Suva has reserved sentence for convicted rapist Rahul Kumar after hearing submissions from both the prosecution and defence.

Kumar appeared before Justice Daniel Goundar today after being convicted of rape and sexual assault relating to offending on June 28, 2025.

State prosecutor Nawaaz Ali presented sentencing submissions and read the victim impact statement.

The court heard the victim suffered emotional and psychological trauma following the incident and was unable to work for about four months.

In her statement, the victim said the offending had significantly affected her mental health, leaving her with anxiety, emotional distress and social isolation.

Ms Ali submitted that Kumar had abused a position of trust as the victim's manager and urged the court to reflect the seriousness of the offending in its sentence.

The prosecution also submitted that rape carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment, with the sentencing range for the rape of an adult generally between seven and 15 years' imprisonment.

Defence lawyer Jitendra Reddy sought leniency, telling the court Kumar was a first-time offender with no previous convictions, had strong family support and good prospects of rehabilitation.

Mr Reddy said Kumar had maintained his innocence throughout the trial but respected the court's verdict.

The defence also called Kumar's father as a character witness. He pleaded for leniency, saying his son was the family's main financial provider.

Justice Goundar adjourned the matter for sentencing on November 24.