An 18-year-old Dalit athlete from Kerala has reported enduring two years of sexual exploitation by 62 individuals, including her trainers, classmates, and neighbors. The victim, who began facing abuse at the age of 13, has detailed a chilling pattern of repeated assaults that have shocked the nation.
Kerala Police have launched an extensive investigation, arresting 15 suspects, including nine detained on Saturday. The accused, aged between 19 and 30, face stringent charges under the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
Authorities have registered five FIRs across police stations in Pathanamthitta district. Evidence gathered includes call records from the victim&rsquo;s father&rsquo;s mobile phone, which she used to communicate with the suspects, and entries from her personal diary. Police revealed that 40 individuals have been identified through phone records, with many suspects possessing prior criminal records.
The assaults reportedly occurred at public spaces near the victim&rsquo;s residence, her school, and training locations. Shockingly, the abuse began with a neighbor, who was a friend, and expanded to include trainers and fellow athletes.
The case came to light after the Pathanamthitta Child Welfare Committee (CWC) was alerted by teachers at the victim&rsquo;s educational institution, who noticed changes in her behavior. Following an initial inquiry, the CWC referred her to a psychologist for detailed counselling and notified the police.
CWC officials expressed concern that individuals outside the district might also be implicated, hinting at a broader network of exploitation. This atrocity against a minor Dalit girl has ignited widespread public outrage, calling attention to systemic failures in protecting vulnerable individuals.
The victim, a school-level athlete, had to endure unimaginable trauma while striving to excel in her sport. Legal experts emphasize the need for swift and exemplary justice under the POCSO and SC/ST Acts to deter similar crimes and provide solace to the victim.
The investigation is ongoing, with more arrests and FIRs anticipated. The Kerala Police have vowed to leave no stone unturned in ensuring justice for the young athlete.
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An athlete was abused by 62 men over the last 5 years

Kerala's 18-year-old Dalit athlete recounts years of sexual abuse; arrests rise to 15 amid outrage

Justice for Dalit Athlete: 62 Alleged Abusers Booked

Kerala's 18-year-old Dalit athlete recounts years of sexual abuse; arrests rise to 15 amid outrage

January 12, 2025 | 06:53 IST