Thiruvananthapuram: Residents of Panavoor near Nedumangad erupted in anger against a stepfather accused of brutally assaulting and killing his one-and-a-half-year-old child. The outrage unfolded on Sunday morning when police brought the accused, Ashkar, to his house for evidence collection as part of the investigation.

As soon as Ashkar arrived under police escort, enraged locals surged towards him, attempting to attack him. Police personnel struggled to protect the accused and escort him into the house. Officers quickly completed the evidence-gathering process inside and around the residence within minutes before taking him away.

Ashkar and the child's mother, Akhila, were arrested on Saturday in connection with the death of 18-month-old Arshith. Investigators found that the toddler had died after suffering severe physical abuse. Arshith was the son of Akhila and her first husband, Akhil, who passed away two years ago. Following his death, Akhila began living with Ashkar.

Residents said a large crowd had gathered expecting the accused's arrival, while a huge police force had been deployed for security. However, moments after Ashkar was brought out, people rushed toward him, shouting, "What kind of cruelty did you inflict on that child?" Women were among those vocally expressing their anger. Police managed to move the accused into the house and later away from the scene. During the commotion, locals also damaged a car allegedly used by Ashkar.

According to residents, Ashkar, Akhila and the child had been living in the area for the past six months but maintained little contact with neighbors. People occasionally heard the child crying from inside the house. Some residents had recently noticed both the toddler's hands in plaster casts. When they questioned Ashkar about it, he reportedly failed to provide a clear explanation. His evasive responses raised suspicions among locals, who later informed the family of Akhila's late husband.

Residents also alleged that Akhila and Ashkar had attempted to burn the child's clothes before their arrest. Remnants of burned clothing were reportedly found. A partially burnt note, believed to have been written by Akhila, was also recovered, though police have not disclosed further details.

Meanwhile, Minister for Women and Child Welfare, Bindu Krishna, described the incident as "heart-wrenching." She said the government was treating the case with utmost seriousness and assured that stringent legal action would be taken to ensure the accused are punished. The department would also take measures to prevent such incidents from recurring, she added.