Mangaluru: A disturbing case of sexual assault has emerged in Puttur, where a minor girl alleged that she was repeatedly assaulted by a man who lured her to a secluded hilly railway track area. The Dakshina Kannada Women’s Police Station has registered a case under stringent sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023 and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
Allegations in the complaint
The complaint reveals that the victim had been residing with her mother and younger sister in a rented house in Puttur town for the past two months. She reportedly came in contact with the accused in March 2025 via phone, using her mother’s mobile.
According to her statement, the accused persuaded her to visit a secluded railway track area where the first incident of assault occurred. The victim further alleged that the accused continued to summon her to the same location multiple times and subjected her to repeated abuse.
Police action and legal provisions
Based on the victim’s testimony, the police have booked the accused under sections 64(2)(M) and 351(3) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, along with sections 5(L) and 6 of the POCSO Act. These laws stipulate severe punishment for aggravated penetrative sexual assault against minors, including imprisonment for extended terms.
The accused has been arrested and presented before the jurisdictional court, which remanded him to judicial custody till September 9, 2025. Investigators are now collecting evidence including medical examination reports, call records and witness statements to strengthen the prosecution’s case.
Community concern and safety measures
The incident has sparked concerns regarding the safety of children and misuse of mobile communication platforms by offenders to exploit minors. Police officials have urged parents and guardians to monitor the online and phone activities of children, remain vigilant for signs of distress, and report any suspicious interactions promptly.
Authorities are also ensuring that the survivor receives appropriate counselling and psychological support to help her recover from the trauma. Child welfare committees and social workers have been engaged to assist the family during the legal proceedings.
Importance of prompt reporting
Law enforcement officials stressed that timely reporting plays a crucial role in preventing further exploitation and ensuring swift justice. “We appeal to the public to approach the police immediately in such cases. The department has zero tolerance towards crimes against children,” a senior officer said.
Ongoing investigation
The investigation is underway, and police are expected to file a detailed charge sheet after completing evidence collection. A fast-track court is likely to handle the case to ensure timely justice.