Wayanad/Kerala: Kerala police have detained at least five people for allegedly raping seven girls aged below 15 years. These minor girls were staying at the orphanage at Muttil in Wayanad district. Medical reports have confirmed rape of the seven minors.
The accused have been charged under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO). The Act defines different forms of sexual abuse, including penetrative and non-penetrative assault, as well as sexual harassment and pornography of a child under eighteen years of age.
The investigation led by Police Officer Kalpetta CI found flaws in the orphanage’s management.
One of the girls was seen coming out of a shop under suspicious circumstances by their high school teacher following which she was questioned and she disclosed the entire incident of abuse.
“It is yet another blot on the state. All child abuse cases should be fast-tracked and guilty will be given deterrent punishment,” said Mahila Congress leader Bindhu Krishna.
This came into light after Maneka Gandhi had told reporters in Kerala that the state is being ruled by criminals and mafia gangs.
Police launched a probe which revealed that the accused have been sexually abusing the girls from the past few months. “Eleven cases were filed and more arrests will be made in coming days,” Wayanad superintendent of police Rajpal Meena said.
