Published Apr 14, 2026 | 11:02 AM ⚊ Updated Apr 14, 2026 | 11:02 AM
Sexual assault. Representational Image. (iStock)
Synopsis: The Kerala State Human Rights Commission stepped in to probe allegations of sexual assault involving a woman IT professional during a rescue operation in Alappuzha. Taking suo motu cognisance of media reports, the Commission — through member V Geetha — flagged serious concerns about the handling of the case.
The Kerala State Human Rights Commission stepped in to probe allegations of sexual assault involving a woman IT professional during a rescue operation after a road accident in Kayamkulam in the Alappuzha district, directing the district police to submit a report within 15 days, sources said on Tuesday, 14 April.
Taking suo motu cognisance of media reports, the Commission — through member V Geetha — flagged serious concerns about the handling of the case. It noted claims that police failed to promptly conduct a medical examination or record the survivor’s confidential statement, and that there were attempts to grant the accused station bail.
The incident occurred around midnight on 3 April near KPAC Junction in Kayamkulam, when the autorickshaw carrying the woman was involved in an accident.
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She was returning to Kollam after a pilgrimage to Malayattoor along with family and friends. According to her complaint filed the next day, a resident who volunteered to take her to the 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 helping her into the vehicle and continued the misconduct until she was moved for treatment. Injured and suffering from an asthma attack at the time, she said she was unable to immediately respond.
The assault came to light after a doctor noticed bruises during examination and urged her to approach the police.
Based on her complaint, Kayamkulam police registered a case against the accused under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including charges related to outraging modesty and sexual harassment.
Subsequent allegations of lapses in the investigation—including delays and the granting of station bail—have drawn scrutiny.
(With inputs from Dileep V Kumar.)
