Kerala Athlete’s Abuse Case: Police Launch Intensive Investigation

An 18-year-old athlete from Kerala's Pathanamthitta district has come forward with allegations of prolonged sexual abuse spanning six years.

The victim, a member of the Dalit community, revealed her ordeal during a gender awareness program, prompting police to launch a detailed investigation.

The abuse reportedly began when she was 13, following an assault by her neighbor. Over the years, she alleges being subjected to multiple gang rapes and blackmail, including threats involving a recorded video.

So far, police have identified dozens of suspects, including minors, and arrested 44 individuals. As the investigation unfolds, 13 additional FIRs were registered on Sunday, bringing the total number of cases to 18. Arrests related to these new cases are pending, with several being linked to incidents reported at Elavumthitta and Pathanamthitta police stations.

Superintendent of Police (SP) V.G. Vinod Kumar has formed a dedicated 25-member team to handle the case, under the supervision of South Zone DIG Ajeetha Begum Sultan. “We are collecting scientific evidence for all registered cases,” stated SP Kumar.

This distressing case highlights the ongoing issues of sexual violence and systemic challenges in ensuring justice, as India continues to grapple with low conviction rates in such cases.