In a deeply concerning development, the city of Hubballi witnessed the registration of two separate cases under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act on Saturday. Both incidents involve allegations of sexual assault where the accused are minors themselves.
Police Commissioner Announces Disturbing Cases
Hubballi Police Commissioner N Shashikumar addressed the media on Saturday, confirming the registration of the two distinct cases. He stated that the incidents fell under the jurisdictions of the Town police station and the Ashok Nagar police station.
First Case: Assault and Video Recording
The first case, registered at the Town police station, involves a serious allegation where a minor was sexually assaulted by three other boys. Commissioner Shashikumar revealed that the accused are in the age group of 15-16 years. In a particularly alarming twist, the accused allegedly shot a video of the criminal act. Police officials confirmed that this aspect is under active investigation. The minor boys accused of the crime are currently being questioned by the authorities.
Second Case: Assault on Girl and Her Father
The second case was filed at the Ashok Nagar police station limits. This incident occurred on Friday and involved two minor boys allegedly assaulting a minor girl. According to the police report, the girl was returning home after attending a cultural programme at her school when she was harassed by the boys, who are from the same educational institution.
The situation escalated when the boys first slapped the girl. When the girl's father arrived at the scene, he too was reportedly assaulted by the accused minors. Commissioner Shashikumar summarised this case as pertaining to inappropriate behaviour with a minor girl and physical assault.
Ongoing Investigations and Legal Framework
The Hubballi police have initiated thorough investigations into both matters. The involvement of minors as both victims and accused presents a complex challenge, handled under the stringent provisions of the POCSO Act. The revelation of a video recording in the first case adds a grave digital dimension to the crime, which investigators are meticulously examining.
These back-to-back incidents in the city have raised serious concerns about child safety and juvenile crime. The police assure that the legal process will be followed diligently to ensure justice for the victims.
