In a horrifying case that has shaken the coastal tourist resort of Pathanamthitta in Kerala, India, police have arrested 44 men accused of raping an 18-year-old girl over a five-year period. The victim, an athlete belonging to the Dalit community, revealed in a statement to the police that she was sexually abused by 62 people during this time.
The police have identified 58 of the accused, including minors, and have arrested 44 over the past two days. "We have identified the remaining 14 and they would be arrested soon," Deputy Superintendent of Police PS Nandakumar told Reuters.
The case came to light after the girl narrated the gang rape to a volunteer during a gender awareness program. Nandakumar, who heads the investigation, said details of how the crimes were committed are still being investigated.
In her statement, the victim said the abuse began when she was 13 after her neighbor allegedly raped her. Local media reported that four of the accused are minors.
Under Indian law, accused in rape cases involving lower castes do not immediately get bail. Reuters was unable to reach any of the accused for comment.
This incident highlights the grim reality of sexual violence against women in India, particularly those belonging to marginalized communities. With over 31,000 reported rapes in 2022 and notoriously low conviction rates, the need for stronger legal and social measures to protect women and ensure justice remains a pressing concern.
11 Comments
Rotfront
This is an isolated incident and shouldn't be used to paint a whole picture of India or its communities!
Matzomaster
The issue isn't just about rapes; it's also about how this is sensationalized in the media. Let's not jump to conclusions.
Karamba
Not all men from that community are guilty; we shouldn't condemn everyone for the actions of a few.
Matzomaster
There are plenty of successful safety measures in place; we shouldn’t generalize based on one case.
Rotfront
Let's not forget that minors are involved, and it's critical to address their rehabilitation instead of just punishing them.
Loubianka
The media should stop emphasizing her caste, making it seem like the rapes are tied to her identity.
Katchuka
Why does the media always focus on the victim’s community background? This could create more division.
BuggaBoom
Complaints like this can lead to social stigma; we should respect everyone's right to a fair trial.
Eugene Alta
This is truly horrifying, and it highlights the urgent need for systemic change in how we handle sexual crimes!
Noir Black
Every case should be seen individually; this shouldn't lead to a hate campaign against any community.
KittyKat
There have been similar cases that turned out to be fabricated; we need to tread carefully here.