Kerala, January 13: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) in Kerala has so far registered at least 29 cases and arrested as many as 43 accused, in connection with series of sexual assaults, faced by a teen athlete belonging to a Dalit community.
As many as 19 more accused are on the run whereas some of them have flown abroad, following the complaints, said the SIT sources.
On Sunday alone, 13 new cases were registered, and six more arrests were made as the SIT analyzed the victim’s diary and her father’s mobile phone, which she had been using before she moved police.
The arrested individuals include three minors and four students preparing for their Class 12 final examinations next month. The SIT has also identified several accused currently residing abroad. Most of the arrested are aged between 17 and 28.
According to the complaints the teen athlete had been facing series of sexual exploitations from her early puberty at every step of her life.
She endured the sexual abuses perpetrated by her friends, acquaintances, coaches, senior sportsmen, and some others due to her innocence and distressed condition.
Unexpectedly, she briefed her ordeal during a counseling session organized by the Child Welfare Committee, while it became essential for her deep depression. The CWC, after taking her statements on record, referred the case to the Pathanamthitta district police chief.
Acting on the complaint and verification of detailed call records, initially 40 suspects were contacted and grilled. Consequently, FIRs were registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
The Kerala police, especially the SIT is leaving no stone unturned to reach out all the accused since the case has drawn widespread attention, reminiscent of other high-profile sexual assault cases including the Suryanelli, Vithura, and Kozhikode incidents.
