A shocking case came to light in Kerala after the Pathanamthitta district police launched an investigation against more than 60 men who allegedly sexually assaulted an 18-year-old athlete for over five years.
The men included the girl’s coaches and her fellow sportspersons against whom four FIRs were filed by the police in Kerala on Friday and five people were also arrested.
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According to the survivor, she started facing abuse at the age of 13 when her neighbour forcibly tried to show her pornographic videos.
The girl was then abused by the accused at an isolated hill close to their house and later was also raped by his friends.
The rape case came to light after the athlete informed the Child Welfare Committee in Pathanamthitta about the crime, after which the committee alerted the police.
A special team has been formed by Pathanamthitta District Police Chief VG Vinodkumar to investigate the allegation.
In the preliminary investigations, at least 62 men have been identified as potential perpetrators and the cases have been registered against 40 men under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
The police have arrested five men, identified as Subin, S Sandeep, VK Vineeth, K Anandu, and Srini.
The Child Welfare Committee (CWC) and the police are working together to ensure that necessary support and protection are given to the survivor.
The victim has been shifted to a shelter home. Although the Elavumthitta Police Station has registered the case, the officers from other stations will be investigating it since the number of accused is high.
Speaking to South First, CWC member Adv. Syamala Devi said that they may involve more people in the case.
“We are currently gathering the details. The girl has been shifted to a shelter home. Further information will be revealed tomorrow (Saturday, 11 January),” she added.
Meanwhile, a Child Protection Officer will also speak to the victim on January 11 to gather more evidence. The victim’s statement will be important for the investigation and will help them in providing appropriate support to the athlete.
The CWC has also prioritised the athlete’s emotional well-being and privacy and is arranging the necessary counselling services for her.
