KERALA — A police investigation into a 2022 POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) case in Koodal, Pathanamthitta district, has been complicated by allegations that a 15‑year‑old girl was subjected to custodial torture while in police custody, according to court filings and statements from the girl’s counsel.
The girl, who was accused of sexually assaulting a 21‑year‑old man, filed a written complaint on June 5, 2022, alleging that she was beaten, deprived of food and water, and threatened with false charges by ten police officers at the Koodal police station. She claimed the abuse was intended to coerce her into withdrawing her statement and implicating the accused.
The Kerala High Court, hearing a petition for bail filed by the girl’s lawyer, noted that the police have not produced any medical report or independent evidence to substantiate the allegations of torture. The court also observed that the investigating officers have indicated the girl’s “disappointment over a romantic relationship” as a possible motive for the accusations, but the magistrate found this reasoning unconvincing.
The case has drawn attention from civil‑rights groups, who argue that custodial torture, if proven, would violate both Indian law and international human‑rights standards. However, the police maintain that the allegations are “baseless” and that the investigation is proceeding in accordance with the POCSO Act.
The court has directed the police to submit a detailed report on the alleged torture within ten days and to ensure the girl’s safety and medical examination, if required. The bail petition remains pending, and the trial of the original sexual‑offence charge is yet to commence.
Analysis: The court’s skepticism about the “disappointment over a romantic relationship” narrative reflects broader concerns about victim‑blaming in sexual‑offence cases, especially involving minors. If the torture allegations are substantiated, they could trigger disciplinary action against the officers and potentially affect the admissibility of the girl’s testimony. Conversely, a lack of corroborating evidence may reinforce the police’s position and allow the investigation to continue without further delay. The outcome will likely influence how custodial practices are scrutinized in future POCSO investigations across Kerala.
Sources
– The Hindu, “Custodial torture allegation clouds probe into POCSO case at Koodal in Kerala’s Pathanamthitta,” https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/custodial-torture-allegation-clouds-probe-into-pocso-case-at-koodal-in-keralas-pathanamthitta/article71189213.ece
Story synopsis gathered from: The Hindu – National — source
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