TV
A minor girl was allegedly sexually assaulted on the National Highway-16 near the Shikharpur area of Cuttack city by an auto-rickshaw driver, who then allegedly threatened to set her ablaze by pouring petrol when she resisted.
According to the FIR filed at Chauliaganj police station on Sunday, the incident occurred a week earlier on August 8. The complaint was filed after the girl narrated the ordeal to her family on Saturday.
The minor was travelling from Jagatpur to Badambadi with a friend. While returning, she reportedly asked the auto driver for water near Shikharpur. When the driver said none was available, her friend stepped away to fetch some water.
It was during this time, the girl alleged, that the driver attempted to sexually assault her inside the auto by repeatedly touching her inappropriately.
When she resisted, the accused allegedly threatened to douse her with petrol and burn her alive. The girl later confided in her family, following which a formal complaint was registered.
Police Investigation Underway
Sources reported that Chauliaganj police have initiated an investigation based on the complaint. The survivor has undergone a medical examination, and her statement has been recorded. Efforts are being made to trace the accused driver.
Police officials confirmed that the case is being investigated under relevant provisions of law, and further investigation into the matter is underway. However, authorities did not provide any additional comments on the incident.
Accused Nabbed
Later in the day, Cuttack DCP Khilari Rishikesh Dnyandeo informed that the accused had been nabbed by a police special team. He also added that the vehicle in which the said crime occurred had also been seized.
"Following the complaint lodged at Chauliaganj police station, our special team recovered the auto-rickshaw. Soon after, the accused was also apprehended. The victim has informed us that she was returning home after shopping at Badambadi. The crime took place during this time," the DCP said.
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The case comes at a time when Odisha has been gripped by repeated cases of sexual assaults and immolations, and has added to concerns of law and order.
