Kendrapada Man Arrested for Alleged Rape of Minor Girl, Victim Found Pregnant
In a deeply disturbing incident from Kendrapada district, a 28-year-old man was arrested on Tuesday for allegedly raping a 15-year-old girl multiple times in a village within the district. The minor, who is a Class IX student, was discovered to be approximately two months pregnant, according to police statements.
Relationship and Threats Preceded Arrest
Police investigations revealed that the accused and the minor were allegedly in a relationship. When the girl informed the man about her pregnancy, he reportedly threatened her to keep his identity a secret. However, the situation unraveled when the girl's mother noticed physical changes in her daughter and grew suspicious.
On Monday, the mother filed a First Information Report (FIR), alleging that the accused, who hails from the same village, had sexually assaulted her daughter repeatedly over the past three months, leading to the pregnancy.
Legal Action and Custody
Acting swiftly on the complaint, police launched an investigation and arrested the accused. He has been charged under BNS Section 70(2), which pertains to the rape of a woman under 18 years of age, as well as Sections 4 and 6 of the Pocso Act, said investigating officer Sanjay Kumar Mallick.
The accused was produced before a court on Tuesday, where his bail application was rejected. He has been remanded to judicial custody, ensuring he remains detained as legal proceedings continue.
Medical Examination and Support for Survivor
The survivor underwent a medical examination at a community health centre, where doctors confirmed her pregnancy. To ensure her safety and well-being, she was presented before the district child welfare committee (CWC) to record her statement and has been placed in a government-run shelter home within the district.
Sadhana Nayak, chairperson of the district CWC, emphasized the committee's commitment, stating, "CWC has taken the minor into its care to ensure her safety and provide medical, legal and psychological support. She will receive regular health check-ups, continued medical care during and after pregnancy, and counselling."
This case highlights the critical role of vigilant family members and prompt police action in addressing such heinous crimes, while also underscoring the importance of support systems like the CWC in aiding survivors through traumatic experiences.
