A community worker in Labasa has received a life sentence for the murder of her newborn son, a decision rendered by the High Court. Sonal Sandhya Lata, who was found guilty of the crime, was sentenced by Justice Pita Bulamainaivalu, despite her not guilty plea during the trial.
The incident occurred on June 14, 2020, when Lata, 38, reportedly cut the baby’s throat while attempting to sever the umbilical cord, which had become twisted around the infant’s neck. The court highlighted that Lata concealed her pregnancy from her husband, claiming to have a stomach cyst instead.
Justice Bulamainaivalu stressed the seriousness of the case, noting that one of the aggravating factors was Lata’s reckless disregard for necessary prenatal medical care, which posed risks to both her and her child. As a consequence, she has been sentenced to life imprisonment with a non-parole period of nine years.
This case sheds light on significant issues concerning maternal health and the importance of support systems for expectant mothers. It reflects ongoing conversations about the need for educational resources regarding prenatal care, which could help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
While the circumstances surrounding this case are heartbreaking, it serves as a reminder that community support and awareness can foster better outcomes for vulnerable individuals facing unplanned pregnancies. By addressing these critical issues, there is hope for preventing such devastating incidents moving forward.
Leave a comment