AP Secretariat Employee Arrested Under Pocso and SC/ST Acts in Vijayawada
In a significant development in Vijayawada, a secretariat employee has been arrested by the Nunna police in connection with a case registered under the stringent Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Pocso) Act and the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The arrest follows a detailed complaint lodged by a woman residing in Payakapuram, highlighting serious allegations of sexual misconduct, harassment, and financial fraud.
Details of the Case and Arrest
The case was officially registered on February 14, based on a formal complaint filed by a single woman who lives within the jurisdiction of the Nunna police station. Until 2023, this woman operated a first aid centre, providing medical services to the local community. The accused, identified as a native of Tadepalli in Guntur district, has a notable professional background. He previously served as an inspector in the legal metrology department and is currently working on deputation at the Andhra Pradesh secretariat, holding the position of assistant section officer.
Allegations and Investigation
In her complaint, the woman provided a detailed account of the accused's actions. She stated that he first visited her clinic in June 2023, introducing himself as a circle inspector in the legal metrology department. Over the subsequent months, he developed a close relationship with her family, gaining their trust. The complainant alleged that he later borrowed substantial amounts of money from her, citing urgent medical and legal needs as reasons for the loans.
The accusations escalate significantly with claims of sexual assault against the woman herself, along with the harassment of her minor daughter. The woman further reported that the accused used obscene and caste-based abusive language, issued threats to intimidate the family, and recorded private images without consent. These images were allegedly circulated among his acquaintances in an attempt to blackmail and coerce the family.
Adding to the gravity of the situation, in January, the accused is accused of contacting the minor daughter through social media platforms and sending obscene messages, which directly invokes the provisions of the Pocso Act. The Nunna police have taken the accused into custody and are conducting a thorough investigation into all aspects of the case. Authorities have confirmed that further inquiries are ongoing to uncover additional evidence and details related to the allegations.
This case underscores the critical importance of legal protections under acts like Pocso and the SC/ST Act, designed to safeguard vulnerable individuals from exploitation and abuse. The arrest of a government employee in such a sensitive matter highlights the need for stringent accountability and justice in cases involving sexual offenses and caste-based atrocities. The community and authorities are closely monitoring the developments as the investigation progresses.
