Kerala shaken: Sexual assault attempts on mentally challenged minor and woman spark outrage

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Two separate incidents of attempted sexual assault against a 16-year-old girl with mental health challenges and a woman have sent shockwaves across the state. The crimes occurred in Angamaly, Ernakulam, and Kattakkada, Thiruvananthapuram.

Assault at Kattakkada Bus stand

In Thiruvananthapuram, a woman resting on a bench near the Station Master’s office at the Kattakkada bus stand was targeted. The incident took place early Friday morning but only came to light the following day when KSRTC authorities reviewed CCTV footage.

Following a formal complaint lodged with the Kattakkada police, the authorities located the woman and moved her to a shelter home. Police identified her when she returned to the depot premises on Saturday night, and her statement has since been recorded. Reports indicate that a native of Panniyode, a repeat offender with a history of criminal cases, has been taken into custody in connection with the assault.

Daylight attempt in Angamaly

In a separate and equally harrowing incident in Angamaly, a 36-year-old man attempted to assault a 16-year-old girl with mental health challenges inside her home in broad daylight. The accused, identified as Rajesh, a painting worker originally from Uttar Pradesh, was apprehended by local residents and handed over to the police.

The incident occurred on Saturday afternoon while the girl was alone in her rented home. The accused, who resides in the same neighbourhood, was reportedly cycling past when he spotted the girl, abandoned his bicycle against an electric post, and rushed into the house. Neighbours responded to the girl’s screams, caught the suspect, and prevented his escape. The girl lives with her mother and younger brother; the mother was at work at a private firm during the time of the attack. The accused has been remanded to custody.