A 16-year-old sexual assault survivor died by suicide at her home in Wayanad on Monday, police said. The Plus One student was found hanging at the residence where she lived with her father.
According to the Kerala Police, the abuse had reportedly taken place multiple times between 2024 and 2025. The matter first surfaced during a school counselling session, following which a formal complaint was filed.
Arrests under POCSO Act
Police arrested a relative and a neighbour of the girl on February 12 under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act. The accused were remanded in judicial custody last week. Officials were continuing procedures such as recording the survivor’s statement and collecting evidence when the incident occurred.
Police stated that the girl’s parents were living separately and that she had been undergoing psychiatric treatment for the past few years. She had reportedly made three suicide attempts in the last two years.
Criticism over support measures
The tragic death has drawn sharp criticism from local leaders and sections of the public over alleged lapses in follow-up counselling and protective care.
T Siddique, MLA from Kalpetta, termed the incident a shocking failure. He said the survivor’s suicide, despite an active police case and recent arrests, pointed to serious shortcomings in ensuring her safety and emotional support.
Police have registered a case of unnatural death and further inquiries are underway.
The incident has once again highlighted the urgent need for sustained psychological care and protective mechanisms for survivors of sexual assault, especially minors navigating legal proceedings.