51 injuries on toddler's body, injuries found on genitals; one-and-a-half-year-old was subjected to severe abuse

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: More details have emerged in the death of a one-and-a-half-year-old boy in Panavoor near Nedumangad, with reports indicating that the child was subjected to severe abuse by his stepfather. The victim, Arshad, was the son of Akhila, who was living in a rented house at Nellikkunnu, Karikuzhi, in Panavoor. Police have identified Akhila's second husband, Ashkar, as the accused in the case.

According to reports, doctors found 51 injuries on the child's body. Injuries were also found on his genitals, while burn marks believed to have been caused by cigarettes were discovered on his legs. Relatives of the child's biological father had reportedly been trying to obtain custody of the boy. They were allegedly assured by Akhila's relatives that the child would be handed over to them. Akhila's mother, Reena, said the child would often cry whenever he saw Ashkar.

On Friday afternoon, Ashkar took the child to SAT Hospital, claiming that food had become lodged in the toddler's throat. However, the toddler died shortly afterwards. During a medical examination, doctors discovered multiple injuries across the child's body. Akhila, a dancer by profession, had reportedly been staying in Tamil Nadu for some time. On the day of the incident, only Ashkar and the child were present in the house.

After learning about the death, relatives from the child's father's side arrived at the hospital and approached the police, alleging foul play. Following this, Nedumangad Police took Ashkar into custody. Akhila was later called back from Tamil Nadu for questioning. During interrogation, Ashkar allegedly confessed to killing the child, according to police sources.

Meanwhile, Ashkar's vehicle was vandalised by an unidentified group early Sunday morning. The vehicle, which was parked on the road in front of his rented house in Panavoor, was damaged. Ashkar was reportedly working as a taxi driver.