The recent verdict by the POCSO Court in Kerala acquitting Arjun, the accused in the rape and strangulation case of a six-year-old girl in Vandiperiyar two years ago has stirred astonishment and outrage among the public. The court attributed the acquittal to a lack of evidence presented by the prosecution.

The child's mother visibly distressed by the verdict cried out in the courtroom questioning the essence of justice in such a decision. The court's decision to release the accused has left many questioning the efficacy of the police investigation and their failure to gather substantial evidence despite the case involving severe charges like torture and murder.

Criticism has been directed towards the investigating officer's negligence in collecting strong evidence related to the heinous crime contributing to the accused's easy escape. While the court condemned the police's serious failure, it refrained from ordering a re-investigation or retrial sparking allegations of political interference affecting the handling of the case.

Concerns have arisen regarding potential links and influences of the accused hindering a thorough police investigation. Additionally, there are speculations that the child's background, being from a Sadhu family, might have influenced the police's diligence in the case.

In response to the verdict, the police have announced their decision to appeal against the release of the accused. There's a growing call for the government's intervention, urging re-investigation under the leadership of a senior official to rectify the lapses in the initial inquiry.

However, it's noted that crucial evidence might have been lost during the initial stages of the case. Reports reveal that the concerned police officer arrived at the scene a day after the child's tragic demise and failed to collect vital evidence thereafter.

Comparisons have been drawn to a similar case in Aluva, where prompt police action led to the conviction of a perpetrator who raped and killed a child. This juxtaposition highlights the perceived failure of the police in delivering justice to the family of the girl in Vandiperiyar.

To restore trust and rectify the miscarriage of justice, it's suggested that the government take exemplary actions against the officials responsible for the lapses in handling the case.