Kerala athlete alleges sexual abuse by more than 60 men over 5 years, 5 arrested

A shocking case came to light in Kerala after Pathanamthitta district police launched an investigation against over 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 athletes, against whom the Kerala Police lodged four FIRs on Friday and five people were also arrested.

Also read: Former badminton star slams L&T chairman’s comment on 90-hour work week

According to the survivor, she began to be abused at the age of 13 when her neighbor forcibly tried to show her pornographic videos.

The accused then molested the girl on a secluded hill near her house and then she 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, following which the committee alerted the police.

Pathanamthitta district police chief VG Vinodkumar formed a special team to investigate the allegation.

In preliminary investigations, at least 62 men have been identified as possible perpetrators and cases have been registered against 40 men under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses (POCSO) Act.

Police 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 the survivor is provided with the necessary support and protection.

The victim has been transferred to a shelter. Although the Elavumthitta police station has registered the case, officers from other police stations will investigate it as the number of accused is high.

Speaking to South First, CWC member Adv. Syamala Devi said more people may be involved in the case.

“We are currently gathering the details. The girl has been transferred to a shelter. “More information will be revealed tomorrow (Saturday, January 11),” he 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 provide appropriate support to the athlete.

The CWC has also prioritized the athlete’s emotional well-being and privacy and is arranging necessary counseling services for her.