Kattappana: A 16-year old girl who was allegedly sexually abused by an autorickshaw driver, attempted to end her life by setting herself ablaze in Idukki district of Kerala.
The girl attempted to take the extreme step at around 8 am on Friday at her house. The teenager who entered the washroom poured kerosene all over her body and set herself ablaze. The girl who sustained severe burns was first rushed to a private hospital and after first aid was shifted to Kottayam Medical College Hospital for specialist treatment.
Medical College Hospital authorities informed that the girl had suffered 30 to 40 per cent burns. The burn injuries are more on the face and neck region.
According to police, the victim who is a dalit, was sexually harassed by the auto driver identified as Manu Manoj, 24.
The accused is a member of the Democratic Youth Federation of India, the youth outfit of CPM. Soon after the incident came to light, the area committee of DYFI informed that Manoj has been expelled from the organisation.
After entering into a close relationship with the girl, Manu had sexually exploited her on many occasions. A complaint has been filed by the parents of the girl and police have initiated a detailed investigation into the incident.
The police said the accused is absconding and search is continuing to nab him. Meanwhile, members of Yuva Morcha took out a procession alleging that the police was shielding the accused.
