Pathanamthitta (Kerala): Police authorities on Saturday confirmed that an official investigation has been launched after a 13-year-old girl was allegedly subjected to sexual harassment by her own school classmates.

According to the police, two separate cases were registered at the Koodal police station on Friday. The complaints name six minors, who are classmates of the victim in the ninth grade, at a school in the district.

Investigators noted that the allegations came to light during a routine counselling session conducted at the academic institution, where the teenager disclosed that she was sexually harassed by her classmates.

The minor stated that the harassment took place both on the school grounds and at external locations. On one specific occasion, the victim was reportedly targeted at the residence of another female classmate.

Based on the detailed statements provided, police have registered two cases involving a total of 11 individuals, all of whom are minors.

Officials clarified that certain students have been named as accused in both complaints, bringing the total number of her classmates currently under active investigation to six. Authorities also suspect the involvement of additional persons.

The police have successfully identified the accused juveniles. Their formal statements are scheduled to be recorded shortly under the guidance and assistance of Child Welfare Committee (CWC) members. In addition to the primary suspects, two other persons are currently being interrogated by the police in connection with the case.


PTI