NEW DELHI: Kerala police have arrested fifteen people, including a minor, for the alleged rape of a Dalit teenager. Nine of the arrests were made Saturday, following the initial six on Friday. The victim, now 18 years old and an athlete, told police she had been assaulted repeatedly since she was 16 years old. According to his statement, more than 60 people are involved.
The arrests came after five FIRs were lodged at two police stations in Pathanamthitta district. Meanwhile, police anticipate more arrests. The accused face charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses (POCSO) Act.
According to Pathanamthitta police quoted by ANI, accused Subin (24), VK Vineeth (30), K Anandu (21), S Sandeep (30) and Sreeni alias S Sudhi (24) are named in a case registered in Ilavumthitta station. . In a separate Pocso case, Achu Anand (21) is also accused. Sudhi, the fifth accused in the first case, is currently in jail in connection with another Pocso case filed earlier by the Pathanamthitta police.
The girl reported having been abused by sports coaches, fellow athletes and classmates. A police officer stated: “Preliminary investigation suggested that the girl, who participates in school-level sports training, was abused by sports coaches, fellow athletes and others.” The assaults reportedly occurred at several locations including Achankottumala, Chuttippara and his school.
The victim’s statement indicates that the abuse began when she was 13 years old, initiated by a neighbor. Police are investigating whether she was subjected to gang rape. They are also examining records from his father’s mobile phone and a diary to identify the suspects. Forty people have been identified so far.
The Pathanamthitta Child Welfare Committee (CWC) revealed that the case arose during psychological therapy after the victim’s teachers reported behavioral changes. The CWC president noted that the girl has been exploited since she was 13 years old and is receiving psychological counselling. The CWC also discovered phone numbers of potential suspects saved on his father’s phone. They believe people outside the district may be involved.
A special investigation team led by Pathanamthitta deputy superintendent of police is investigating. Activists and political figures demand the arrest of all those involved. Subhashini Ali, CPI(M) politburo member, posted on “Severe punishment for the guilty.”
Meanwhile, the National Women’s Commission (NCW) has also learned of the sexual abuse case. NCW president Vijaya Rahatkar directed the commission to support the victim and ensure thorough investigation. The NCW demanded action be taken within three days and condemned the crime, urging immediate arrest of all accused. They also called for a fair investigation and the necessary medical and psychological support for the victim.