Two men have been arrested in India after a 13-year-old girl allegedly became pregnant following repeated rape. The arrests include a distant relative and a neighbour of the victim.
Allegations and investigation
The girl's mother suspected her daughter might be pregnant after the girl suffered severe stomach pains. A medical examination later confirmed the pregnancy. The girl, from Ludhiana in Punjab, subsequently accused the relative of raping her in December last year. She also alleged that a young person repeatedly sexually assaulted her in an ordeal that began in January.
The mother reported the allegations to the police, according to The Times of India. Police have opened an investigation into rape and criminal conspiracy under India's criminal code.
Legal context and support
Under Section 6 of India's Sexual Offences Act 2012, anyone found guilty of aggravated penetrative sexual assault can be jailed for a minimum of 10 years.
In the UK, Rape Crisis England & Wales works to end child sexual abuse, rape, sexual assault, sexual harassment and all forms of sexual violence. Its free 24/7 Support Line is available on 0808 500 2222 or via online chat at 247sexualabusesupport.org.uk.
