Kerala Boy Allegedly Molested by 14 Men Over Two Years; 9 Arrested Including Government Employees

A deeply disturbing case has emerged from Kerala highlighting serious child protection concerns. Nine people have been arrested in Kasaragod, including two government employees, in connection with repeated sexual assaults of a 16-year-old boy over a period of two years. The accused allegedly befriended the boy via a gay dating app and carried out offenses in multiple locations including the boy’s home, as well as in Kannur and Kozhikode districts. According to the local authorities, the incidents came to light when the boy’s mother saw a man fleeing their house. Upon questioning, the boy revealed the abuse, causing his mother to contact a child helpline, which in turn led to the involvement of local police. Based on the victim’s statements, 14 separate cases under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 have been registered over the past couple of days. Of these 14 cases, eight are being investigated in the Kasaragod district itself, while six have been transferred to Kannur and Kozhikode. The accused range in age between 25 and 51 years. One of them is a railway employee, as reported by police, indicating that the case involves not only private individuals but also people in public service. In response to the allegations, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed. It is being led by a Deputy Superintendent of Police along with several inspectors. The SIT will be tasked with collecting evidence, verifying statements, and ensuring that the investigation is conducted thoroughly and sensitively, especially given the minor’s involvement. State and civil society reactions have been strong. There’s immediate concern about how a minor could be repeatedly abused over such a long period without detection. Advocates are calling for stricter regulation of apps that facilitate contact between minors and adults, better mechanisms for verifying identity and age, and improved awareness among parents, schools, and communities. Kerala’s Health and Education departments have been urged to coordinate with child welfare committees to offer counselling and support to the victim, and also to monitor whether there have been any lapses in reporting or safeguarding. Meanwhile, law enforcement has assured that all accused will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. This case adds to ongoing debates in Kerala about privacy, safety of minors online, and digital regulation. As authorities proceed with the investigation, it is hoped that this case will serve as a wake-up call for tighter policies, better preventive education, and more vigilant protection of children in digital spaces.