A shocking incident of alleged sexual assault on a minor has come to light in Punjab's Fazilka district, with a 45-year-old man currently evading arrest. The accused is alleged to have raped a seven-year-old girl in the Khuian Sarwar area of Abohar, sending shockwaves through the local community.
Details of the Alleged Assault
According to the police complaint filed by the survivor's mother, the traumatic incident occurred on December 30. The young girl was reportedly flying a kite with other children on a street in her neighbourhood. The accused, who is known to the family and lives in the same locality, is alleged to have lured the child to his house under a false pretext.
"When my daughter did not return home, we began searching for her," the mother stated in her complaint. She further alleged that other neighbours informed the family that they had seen the accused taking the girl to his residence.
Police Action and Medical Examination
Upon being brought back, the family noticed visible marks of assault on the child's body. They immediately informed the Khuian Sarwar police, who swung into action. A case was promptly registered under the stringent Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
On Thursday, the minor survivor was taken to a government hospital for a thorough medical examination, which is a standard and crucial procedure in such cases for collecting forensic evidence.
Manhunt Underway for Absconding Accused
Ranjit Singh, the in-charge of Khuian Sarwar police station, confirmed that the accused has been absconding since the incident was reported. "We have registered a case against the accused, who is currently evading arrest. Our teams are conducting raids at his possible hideouts, and we are confident he will be apprehended shortly," Singh assured.
The police are pursuing all leads to track down the suspect and ensure he faces the full force of the law. The case highlights the ongoing challenges in preventing crimes against children and the critical importance of community vigilance and swift police response under the POCSO Act.