The Kerala State Human Rights Commission has ordered a probe into allegations of sexual assault involving a woman IT professional during a rescue operation following a road accident in Kayamkulam, Alappuzha district. Taking suo motu cognisance of media reports, the Commission, through member V. Geetha, directed the district Police to submit a detailed report within 15 days.
The panel flagged serious concerns over the handling of the case, including claims that police failed to promptly conduct a medical examination and did not record the survivor’s confidential statement in time. It also noted allegations that attempts were made to grant station bail to the accused.
The incident occurred around midnight on April 3 near KPAC Junction in Kayamkulam. The woman was travelling in an autorickshaw when it met with an accident. She was returning to Kollam after a pilgrimage to Malayattoor along with family members and friends.
According to her complaint filed the following day, a local resident who volunteered to take her to a hospital in a goods autorickshaw allegedly molested her during the transfer. The survivor stated that the man, reportedly under the influence of alcohol, behaved inappropriately while assisting her into the vehicle and continued the misconduct until she was moved for treatment.
She further said that she was injured and experiencing an asthma attack at the time, which left her unable to react immediately. The alleged assault came to light after a doctor noticed bruises during her medical examination and advised her to approach the Police.
Based on her complaint, Kayamkulam Police registered a case under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including charges related to outraging modesty and sexual harassment. However, subsequent allegations of lapses in the investigation, including delays in procedures and the reported granting of station bail, have drawn scrutiny, prompting the Commission to intervene.
Officials said further action will be taken based on the report submitted by the district Police.
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