Mysuru, Oct. 15 -- In a significant development in the rape and murder case of a nine-year-old girl who had come to Mysuru to sell balloons during Dussehra, a fast-track court has convicted the accused, 32-year-old Karthik. The court will pronounce the sentence on Friday, October 16.

Judge Anil P Waghade of the Fast Track Special Court-1 delivered the verdict after the prosecution presented its case against the accused. The incident, which occurred during last year's Dussehra celebrations, had sparked widespread anger and demands for justice across Karnataka.

The girl had travelled to Mysuru with her family, who had come to the city to sell balloons and toys during the festival. The family had established a temporary shelter near Dodda ...