A harrowing case of sexual abuse has emerged in Kerala, where more than 60 men have been accused of sexually assaulting an 18-year-old athlete over a span of five years.
The district police in Pathanamthitta have launched a comprehensive investigation into the allegations.
The survivor, who began experiencing abuse at the age of 13, revealed that the ordeal began when her neighbour forcibly showed her pornographic videos.
Over the years, she was subjected to abuse by the accused at an isolated hill near her home and later by his friends.
Following her disclosure, the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) in Pathanamthitta informed the police, which led to the registration of multiple FIRs.
Five individuals—Subin, S Sandeep, VK Vineeth, K Anandu, and Srini—were arrested on Friday.
The men included the girl’s coaches and her fellow sportspersons, against whom four FIRs were filed by the police in Kerala on Friday and the other five were arrested.
Adv. Syamala Devi of the CWC stated to South First, “We are currently gathering the details. The girl has been shifted to a shelter home. Further information will be revealed tomorrow (Saturday, 11 January).”
The Pathanamthitta District Police Chief, VG Vinodkumar, has formed a special team to investigate the case thoroughly.
Preliminary investigations have identified at least 62 potential perpetrators, with 40 men being booked under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
“The victim has been shifted to a shelter home. Further support and protection will be provided. Investigations are being conducted by officers from multiple stations due to the large number of accused,” said the police.
A Child Protection Officer will engage with the survivor on January 11 to gather further evidence.
The victim’s statement is crucial for the investigation, which is being prioritised alongside her emotional well-being and privacy. Counselling services are being arranged for her support.
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