AP women’s panel demands arrest of 60-year-old for attempted rape of minor student in Tuni

Amaravati: The Andhra Pradesh State Women’s Commission has taken serious note of the attempted rape of a minor Gurukul student in Tuni, Kakinada district.

A 13-year-old schoolgirl from Tuni town was allegedly lured and sexually assaulted by a 60-year-old man who deceitfully posed as her grandfather.

“The girl and her mother have given their statements, and a case has been registered under the POCSO Act,” Kakinada DSP Srihari Raju confirmed. DSP said that efforts are underway to apprehend the accused, identified as Narayana Rao.

Police warn against making false political claims

The police have already begun collecting all necessary evidence related to the case.

Responding to speculative social media claims, the DSP cautioned that linking the accused to any political party without verification is false.

“This is not a politically linked case. No political party has confirmed any association with the accused. Those attempting to create political unrest or spread misinformation will face strict legal consequences,” he warned.

He also appealed to the public and media to exercise restraint and uphold the dignity of the survivor. “Some people are circulating videos of the victim on social media, which is a punishable offence under the POCSO Act. I urge everyone, including media representatives, to be extremely cautious and avoid sharing such content,” he added.

Expressing deep anguish over the incident, Commission Chairperson Dr Rayapati Sailaja has directed officials to ensure swift and strict action against the accused. Acting promptly, Dr Sailaja spoke with the Kakinada District Superintendent of Police (SP) and instructed that the culprit be apprehended and prosecuted under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

Commission orders immediate help to victim

The commission has also taken suo motu cognisance of the case, underscoring its commitment to ensuring justice for the victim. Orders have been issued to the District Collector’s Office and the Child Welfare Committee to provide immediate protection, medical assistance, and legal aid to the victim.

The commission has also served a notice to the District Police Department, directing them to submit a detailed report on the incident within 48 hours.

In addition, the commission has instructed the Andhra Pradesh Social Welfare Residential Educational Institutions Society (APSWREIS) to strengthen security measures in Gurukul schools to prevent such incidents in the future.

In a post on X, Minister Nara Lokesh said, “As soon as the details of the incident came to light, the police registered a POCSO case against him and arrested him. We will suppress anyone who commits such incidents with an iron fist. We will provide counselling to the victim so that she can be brave and provide all kinds of help and support. Instructions have been given to the authorities to provide strong security to the students studying in Gurukul schools and welfare hostels.”