Kendrapara class 7 student ‘rape’ case: Five including four teachers arrested

In a development to the sexual assault allegation involving a Class 7 student of a private English medium school in Odisha's Kendrapara district, police have arrested five people in connection with the case. 

The arrests include one female teacher, three male teachers, and a peon.

Police Action

Rajkanika police confirmed that the arrests were made following the registration of a case under the POCSO Act. The individuals are currently being interrogated as part of the ongoing investigation. Reports indicate that the accused are members of the school staff.

Allegations Of Assault

The incident reportedly took place inside the school premises, where the student was allegedly gang raped by teachers. The exact role of the female teacher in the case has not yet been established. At the time of reporting, it remained unclear whether she directly enabled the assault or had prior knowledge of it.

Background Of The Case

The matter first came to light when the victim’s mother submitted a written complaint to the Kendrapara District Child Welfare Committee (CWC). 

Taking the allegation seriously, the CWC visited the school premises and began an investigation. “We received the complaint on February 18 and launched the investigation on February 19, as it is a sensitive matter. We have recorded the statement of the survivor and visited the school for an inquiry,” said Swagatika Patra, chairman of the Child Welfare Committee, Kendrapara.

Also Read: Class 7 student ‘raped’ in Kendrapara, police begin probe

Meanwhile, Rajkanika police also initiated their own inquiry, detaining three teachers and a female assistant for questioning before the arrests were made. Police additionally visited the victim’s residence to conduct further investigation.