A shocking case of alleged sexual abuse has emerged from Jajpur district in Odisha, where a 16-year-old girl was discovered to be four months pregnant. The incident came to light this week after the minor was taken to a hospital following complaints of severe vomiting.
Medical Examination Reveals Pregnancy, Police Complaint Filed
The family of the teenager, hailing from Jajpur district, admitted her to a hospital on Tuesday due to persistent health issues. It was during the subsequent medical examination that doctors confirmed the pregnancy, which is now in its fourth month. This distressing revelation prompted immediate action from the girl's family.
Her elder sister approached the police and lodged a formal First Information Report (FIR). The complaint points the finger at a 20-year-old motor mechanic who lives in their neighbourhood. The FIR alleges that this individual sexually abused the minor over a period of five months, which ultimately resulted in the pregnancy.
Accused on the Run, Police Launch Manhunt
According to the investigating officer, Antrajami Srichandan, the accused fled the village as soon as the matter came to the fore. "The accused fled the village. We are raiding his hideouts to nab him," Srichandan stated on Wednesday. A massive search operation is currently underway to locate and arrest the young man.
The police have registered a case under multiple stringent laws. These include Section 70(2) of the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (which deals with rape of a woman under 18 years), along with Sections 4 and 8 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012. Given the social background of the victim, the police have also invoked Section 3 of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.
Minor Secured, Provided Comprehensive Support by Authorities
In the aftermath of the discovery, the victim's safety and well-being have become a priority for the authorities. The girl was presented before the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) in Jajpur. Following the CWC's directive, she has been shifted to a government-run care centre for her protection.
Rexona Jena, the chairperson of the CWC, Jajpur, outlined the steps being taken. "We have taken custody of the minor to ensure her safety and provide medical, legal and psychological support, including counselling and healthcare during and after pregnancy," Jena explained. It was also revealed that the victim had stopped attending school for the past month, highlighting the broader impact of the alleged abuse on her life.
This tragic incident underscores the persistent threat of sexual violence against minors and the critical role of vigilant families and robust legal frameworks like the POCSO Act in seeking justice. The community now awaits the swift apprehension of the accused.
