Police Register Cases Against Six Minors in School Sexual Harassment Incident
Authorities in Kerala's Pathanamthitta district have initiated an investigation after a Class 9 student was allegedly sexually harassed by six of her classmates. According to police, two separate cases were registered at Koodal police station on Friday against the minors, who are also students of the same school and were classmates of the victim.
The incident came to light after the victim reported the harassment to her parents, who then approached the school authorities and subsequently filed a complaint with the police. The school administration has been cooperating with the investigation.
Details of the Cases Registered
Police officials stated that the two cases have been registered under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012. The accused minors are all aged between 14 and 15 years, studying in the same class as the victim.
The investigation is being conducted by a special team from Koodal police station, with senior officers monitoring the progress. The identities of the victim and the accused have been withheld to protect their privacy, as per legal norms.
School and District Administration Respond
The school authorities have formed an internal committee to look into the matter and provide necessary support to the victim. District education officials have also been alerted, and counseling sessions have been arranged for the affected student.
Local police have assured that strict action will be taken as per the law. A senior police officer said, "We are committed to ensuring justice for the victim and will follow due process. The minors will be produced before the Juvenile Justice Board."
Broader Context of School Safety in Kerala
This incident has once again raised concerns about the safety of students in educational institutions across Kerala. In recent years, the state has witnessed several cases of harassment and abuse in schools, prompting calls for stricter implementation of safety protocols and awareness programs.
Child rights activists have urged schools to conduct regular workshops on gender sensitivity and to establish robust complaint mechanisms. The Kerala government has also been taking steps to strengthen the POCSO Act implementation and create a safer environment for children.
