Fourteen individuals have been arrested and remanded to judicial custody in connection with the alleged sexual abuse of a Dalit girl in Kerala’s Pathanamthitta district, police reported on Sunday. All 14 accused have been sent to judicial custody for 14 days by a local court. Authorities have also detained several other suspects for questioning, and additional arrests are expected as the investigation progresses, according to an official statement.
The disturbing case, which has shocked the state, involves the sexual abuse of a young girl over a prolonged period. The victim, now 18 years old, alleged in her complaint that she was subjected to sexual exploitation by as many as 62 individuals since she was 13 years old. Police investigations have uncovered evidence pointing to her exploitation by sports trainers, fellow athletes, and classmates, raising questions about systemic lapses in safeguarding vulnerable individuals.
Nine First Information Reports (FIRs) have already been registered at two police stations within the district in connection with the case. A special investigation team, led by the Pathanamthitta Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP), has been formed to ensure a thorough and efficient inquiry.
The matter first came to light during a counseling session organized by the Child Welfare Committee (CWC). The session was arranged after teachers at the girl’s educational institution observed significant behavioral changes in her and reported their concerns to the CWC. Following the counseling session, the Committee alerted the police, leading to the subsequent filing of complaints and the initiation of the investigation.
The case has drawn nationwide attention, with several authorities and commissions stepping in to demand swift action. The National Commission for Women (NCW) has called for the immediate arrest of all individuals implicated in the case. The NCW has also requested a detailed action-taken report from the relevant authorities within three days, emphasizing the need for a fair and time-bound investigation to ensure justice for the victim.
In addition, the Kerala Women’s Commission (KWC) has taken suo motu cognizance of the incident and registered a case independently. In a press release, KWC Chairperson P. Sathi Devi directed the Pathanamthitta Superintendent of Police to submit a comprehensive report on the case without delay. The Commission has vowed to monitor the investigation closely to ensure accountability and justice.
This horrifying case underscores the urgent need for systemic reforms to protect children and young adults from sexual exploitation, particularly in environments where they are expected to feel safe, such as schools and sports institutions. Authorities have pledged to pursue the case rigorously and ensure that all those involved are brought to justice.
