A psychologist working at a private hospital in Kollam district of Kerala has been arrested for repeatedly sexually assaulting a minor girl who came to him for counselling, police officials confirmed on Tuesday.
Details of the Incident
The accused, identified as Santosh Sukumaran, was attached to a private hospital at Umayanalloor. He was taken into custody by Varkala police following a complaint lodged by the victim's parents. According to police, the minor girl had been visiting the hospital for counselling sessions, usually accompanied by her mother. On one such occasion, Sukumaran allegedly took the child into a private room under the pretext of conducting a session in the mother's absence, subjected her to sexual assault, and photographed her without clothing.
How the Crime Came to Light
The incident came to light only after the girl's parents noticed a marked change in her behaviour. Concerned, they took her to another psychologist, during whose sessions the child disclosed what had happened. The parents subsequently filed a complaint with the police.
Investigation and Arrest
During the investigation, police confirmed that Sukumaran had raped the girl under the guise of providing therapy. The accused, who went into hiding in Thiruvananthapuram, was traced and arrested. The case has been registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code.
Possibility of More Victims
Police are now examining whether there are other victims, given Sukumaran's access to vulnerable patients in a clinical setting. Authorities have urged anyone with information to come forward.
