Kerala Police Chief Defends Investigation in Kayamkulam Sexual Assault Case
Alappuzha District Police Chief M P Mohanachandran has firmly denied any procedural lapses or shortcomings in the police investigation into a disturbing case where a woman, injured in a road accident, was allegedly sexually assaulted while being transported to a hospital in Kayamkulam. The senior officer addressed reporters in Alappuzha on Monday, providing a detailed account of the steps taken by law enforcement following the incident.
Official Statement and Investigation Details
Mohanachandran confirmed that a preliminary investigation report has already been submitted to the Director General of Police (DGP), ensuring transparency and oversight at the highest level. The Kayamkulam Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) was specifically assigned to probe critical aspects of the case, including allegations that the accused, identified as Sinil Sabad, threatened the victim to secure her discharge from the hospital.
To protect the victim's privacy and ensure a thorough inquiry, Section 183 was invoked to record her statement confidentially, and a formal application was submitted to the court to facilitate this process. The police chief emphasized that all standard procedures were meticulously followed during the registration of the First Information Report (FIR), adhering to legal protocols designed to safeguard the rights of all parties involved.
Background of the Incident and Police Response
The tragic sequence of events began when an autorickshaw, traveling from Malayattoor to Kollam, collided with a divider at the KPAC Junction in Kayamkulam. The driver reportedly swerved to avoid hitting a motorcyclist, leading to the accident. In the chaotic aftermath, Sabad assisted in moving the injured woman into another vehicle, during which the alleged sexual assault occurred.
The victim bravely reported the assault while undergoing an X-ray at the hospital, prompting immediate action from the authorities. Police personnel swiftly collected all relevant information from the hospital staff and initiated an investigation without delay. A comprehensive medical examination was conducted the following day to gather forensic evidence, underscoring the seriousness with which the case was handled.
Challenges and Contextual Factors
Mohanachandran addressed the decision to grant station bail to the accused, explaining that this was likely due to a lack of sufficient evidence at that stage of the investigation. He clarified that the accident site is not considered a crime hotspot, and Sabad's residence is located approximately 200 meters away from the location, providing context to the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The police chief's statements aim to reassure the public that the investigation is being conducted with due diligence and integrity, despite the complex and sensitive nature of the case. Authorities continue to pursue all leads and evidence to ensure justice is served, while maintaining a victim-centric approach throughout the legal process.
