Key Points:
- Disturbing Case in Kerala: An 18-year-old girl alleges sexual abuse by 64 individuals over four years, sparking widespread outrage.
- Police Investigation: Separate FIRs filed under the POCSO Act, with six arrests made so far.
- Victim’s Account: Abuse reportedly occurred in multiple locations, including a sports complex, implicating coaches, classmates, and neighbors.
- No Mobile Access: The girl used her father’s phone to communicate, listing numbers of 40 alleged perpetrators.
- Child Welfare Intervention: The case came to light during a school counseling session, with authorities ensuring her safety and well-being.
Pathanamthitta, Kerala: A shocking case of prolonged sexual abuse has surfaced in Pathanamthitta district, where an 18-year-old girl has accused 64 individuals of raping her over a span of four years. The harrowing details came to light during a school counseling session, leaving the community and law enforcement in disbelief.
The teenager’s allegations have led to a multi-pronged investigation, with separate FIRs being filed for each incident under the stringent Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses (POCSO) Act. So far, six individuals have been arrested, with many more under investigation.
The Victim’s Testimony: A Tale of Betrayal
The girl, a sports enthusiast, recounted a series of abuses that allegedly took place in various locations, including a sports complex. Among the accused are her coach, classmates, and local residents. Despite being a minor for most of the period, she was reportedly coerced into silence, unable to seek help.
A particularly distressing aspect is her lack of access to a personal mobile phone. The girl used her father’s phone, primarily at night, to communicate. Police revealed that she had stored the numbers of about 40 alleged perpetrators on this device, providing crucial leads for the investigation.
How the Case Unfolded
The revelations began during a school counseling session where the victim shared her ordeal. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the school contacted the Child Welfare Committee (CWC), which subsequently involved the police. CWC chairman Rajeev N highlighted the psychological toll on the girl, stating, “This was an unusual case. We ensured she was counselled thoroughly to validate the allegations before proceeding.”
The police have since registered cases across multiple police stations, correlating the incidents to the locations mentioned by the victim. Pathanamthitta District Police Chief is personally overseeing the investigation, ensuring no stone is left unturned.
Allegations Against Authority Figures
One of the most alarming aspects of the case is the involvement of individuals in positions of trust, such as coaches and classmates. The girl reported instances of abuse even within the confines of a sports complex, a place meant for nurturing talent and fostering discipline.
Ensuring Justice and Safety
Authorities have prioritized the girl’s safety and well-being, with plans to provide her with psychological support and long-term care. “We will ensure her safety and take care of her until she gets a job,” the CWC chairman assured. The police are committed to a thorough investigation, bringing all culprits to justice.
This heart-wrenching case has sent shockwaves across Kerala, sparking conversations about the safety of minors and the responsibility of institutions. As investigations continue, the focus remains on ensuring justice for the survivor while addressing systemic failures that allowed such heinous crimes to persist unchecked.
