‘Why don’t you die?’ Police claim suspect brutalised Chottanikkara girl before fleeing from scene

Kochi: The police are investigating an incident involving a POCSO survivor who was found unconscious and weak at her residence in Chottanikkara. As part of the probe, officers took the suspect, Anoop into custody on Wednesday morning and later brought him to the scene for evidence collection under heavy security.

Reports suggest that Anoop had visited the woman’s home on Saturday, where a quarrel broke out. During the argument, he allegedly assaulted her, slamming her head against a wall and attempting to suffocate her. The police claim that he even questioned her, asking, "Why don’t you die?"

Following this, the woman allegedly attempted suicide. She was found hanging with a shawl, but Anoop cut it down. After realising she was still alive, he reportedly continued the attack. However, after assuming she was dead, he attempted to flee, according to police. The police believe Anoop's actions were driven by doubts about the woman’s commitment to their relationship, leading to the assault.

Victim in critical condition
The 20-year-old woman was found in a debilitated state late Sunday afternoon at her residence near Chottanikkara. She had rope marks on her neck, cuts on her hands, and was found semi-nude, with ants infesting her injuries. The police and relatives rushed her to Thrippunithura Government Hospital. She was later transferred to Ernakulam General Hospital and then to a private hospital in the city. She remains in critical condition in the intensive care unit.