Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Dec 3: A 14-year-old girl’s death in Uppinangady has taken a serious turn after police opened a fresh case alleging sexual abuse, harassment and abetment, following new evidence and a complaint from the girl’s mother.
The minor had reportedly consumed pesticide at her home on November 4 and was rushed to hospital in a critical condition. Despite intensive treatment, she passed away on November 12. The incident was initially registered as an unnatural death under UDR No. 56/2025, as per Section 194(3)(IV) of the Bharatiya Nagarika Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).
However, the case escalated when the girl’s mother approached the Uppinangady police on November 28 with a detailed complaint alleging that her daughter had been subjected to repeated sexual exploitation by one accused, and was further harassed and threatened by him along with another youth.
“My daughter was scared and traumatised. She told me that they had threatened her. She could not bear the pressure,” the mother reportedly told police in her written complaint.
Based on these fresh allegations, police registered a new FIR under Crime No. 111/2025, invoking Sections 74, 79 and 108 read with Section 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), in addition to Section 8 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
During preliminary investigation, officers discovered that the prime accused is himself a minor.
“The primary accused has been found to be a juvenile. Procedures under the Juvenile Justice framework will be followed. The investigation is ongoing,” a senior police official said.
Police sources said statements from family members and other witnesses have been recorded, and further inquiry will determine the sequence of events leading up to the girl’s death. Forensic reports and digital evidence, if any, are also being examined.
The case has triggered concern in the local community, with residents calling for a thorough probe. Authorities have assured that the investigation will proceed “with sensitivity and urgency,” given the involvement of minors on both sides.
Further investigation is in progress.