Protests Erupt In Kashmir As People Demand Justice For A 3-YO Rape Survivor

The violent protests, which began on Monday in Kashmir demanding justice for a 3-year-old rape survivor, have spilled across the valley, with people calling for strict punishment. Protests have been reported from parts of Srinagar, Budgam and Bandipur forcing authorities to close all educational institutions including schools and colleges.

There have also been reports of local youths clashing with police.?

AP

According to reports, the incident happened in Sumbal area of Bandipora district on Thursday. The accused, a local youth, allegedly lured the three-year-old offering her candy and took her to an isolated place where he sexually abused her. The incident came to light after the girl narrated it to her parents. Based on the victim's father's complaint, police have arrested the accused who claims to be a juvenile.?

He has reportedly produced a school certificate to show that he is minor. The cops while confirming the rape and arrest, however said the age of the accused will be determined through scientific examination.

BCCL

The heinous act has been condemned by political and religious leaders from the state who called for the strictest punishment.

A number of civil society groups have also taken to the street, condemning the incident and calling for the strictest punishment for the culprit.

BCCL

Last year, following the gang rape and murder of an 8-year-old girl in Kathua, Jammu and Kashmir had become the first Indian state to enact the death penalty for sexual assault on minors.

Subsequently, the Union Government had in December cleared a proposal to amend the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 to provide for the death penalty for aggravated penetrative sexual assault on children.

Apart from providing for the death penalty in aggravated offenses, the amendments also provide for stringent punishment for the offense of administering hormones for making children "artificially major".