Kerala girl, 13, alleges sexual harassment by classmates; cops launch probe
A 13-year-old student in Kerala has alleged that she was repeatedly sexually harassed by multiple classmates over several months, prompting a police investigation and a
A 13-year-old student in Kerala has alleged that she was repeatedly sexually harassed by multiple classmates over several months, prompting a police investigation and a suo motu intervention by the State Child Rights Commission. According to police, the incidents allegedly took place in May this year at multiple locations, including the school premises, the residence of one of the accused girls, and the school's washroom. A total of 10 people, including a girl, have been named as accused in the case. Six of them are minors.
Read Full Story The allegations came to light after the teenager disclosed the abuse during a counselling session conducted at her school. Following her revelation, the matter was reported to Childline authorities, who alerted the police. Based on the girl's statement, investigators have launched a detailed probe into the allegations. Police said the minor was allegedly subjected to repeated sexual harassment by several classmates at different locations. Investigators are now recording statements, collecting evidence and examining the circumstances under which the alleged incidents occurred.
Officials are also probing whether the case has any connection with another sexual assault case reported from the area around one-and-a-half years ago. The police said all possible angles are being examined as part of the investigation. Taking cognisance of media reports, the Kerala State Commission for Protection of Child Rights has registered a suo motu case and sought a detailed report from the police on the incident and the progress of the investigation. The case has once again raised serious concerns over the safety of children within educational institutions and the need for stronger mechanisms to identify and address instances of abuse at an early stage.
The fact that the allegations surfaced only during a school counselling session has also underscored the crucial role of mental health support systems and child protection mechanisms in helping survivors report abuse. Police said the investigation is continuing, and further action will be taken based on the evidence gathered and the statements recorded during the course of the probe. Ends
The BriefWire