Kerala Temple Priest Arrested Under POCSO Act for Alleged Sexual Assault of Minor Girl
In a disturbing case from Kerala, the Chithara police in Thiruvananthapuram have arrested a 22-year-old temple priest for the alleged sexual assault of a 16-year-old girl. The accused, identified as Abhin, was taken into custody under the stringent provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
Details of the Alleged Assault
According to police officials, the accused was known to the survivor, and the alleged assault reportedly began at the survivor's residence in September of last year. Authorities state that Abhin continued to assault the minor multiple times thereafter, creating a pattern of abuse that lasted for months.
The survivor revealed to investigators that Abhin coerced her by threatening to inform her family about the situation, using this intimidation to maintain control and silence her. This psychological manipulation compounded the trauma experienced by the young victim.
Survivor's Trauma and Medical Intervention
The case came to light after the survivor attempted suicide by overdosing on sleeping pills and engaging in self-harm. Her family immediately rushed her to a hospital where she received emergency medical care.
It was during subsequent medical counselling sessions that the survivor finally revealed the sexual assault she had endured, according to a police officer involved in the investigation. This disclosure prompted immediate action from authorities.
Police Action and Legal Proceedings
Acting on the information provided by the survivor, Chithara police arrested Abhin from Kurakkode. The accused was promptly produced before a magistrate who remanded him to judicial custody.
The case highlights several critical aspects:
- The vulnerability of minors to sexual exploitation by individuals in positions of trust
- The importance of medical counselling in helping survivors disclose traumatic experiences
- The effectiveness of the POCSO Act in addressing crimes against children
- The need for continued vigilance in protecting minors from sexual predators
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in preventing sexual violence against children, even within trusted community settings. The investigation continues as authorities gather additional evidence and statements related to the case.
