The death of a three-year-old girl in Tamil Nadu has triggered a fresh political debate over the state’s handling of crimes against women and children, with the DMK demanding stronger intervention and stricter punishment for offenders.
The DMK leader TKS Elangovan said the government must take a firm approach in dealing with such incidents and ensure severe punishment for those found guilty. Calling crimes against women and children a social issue, Elangovan stressed the need for greater focus and intervention from the government. He also alleged that several recent cases have involved members or functionaries of the ruling TVK.
A three-year-old girl has died following a sexual assault in the Tiruvallur district of Tamil Nadu. A migrant worker has been arrested in connection with the incident. According to police, the young victim and her family, who are from Bihar, were residing in the SIPCOT industrial area of Gummidipoondi. The child was acquainted with the accused, who allegedly lured her away from her home with a biscuit before committing the assault, the police said. The child was subsequently discovered with serious injuries in a nearby bushy area and was rushed to a hospital, where she later passed away during treatment.
Dismissing claims about multiple perpeture, the police have confirmed that only one individual was involved in the crime. The case was initially registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and officials indicated that murder charges are expected to be added following the victim’s death.
The incident has also brought renewed attention to the Tamil Nadu government’s initiatives aimed at improving women’s safety.
Soon after taking office, Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay announced the creation of a dedicated women’s safety force named Singappenn. The initiative, designed to strengthen protection mechanisms for women and girls, was formally launched a few days ago.
The latest case comes against the backdrop of rising concerns over crimes against children across the country.
According to the latest crime records cited in the report, more than 1.77 lakh cases involving crimes against children were registered in India during 2023. Of these, over 67,000 cases, accounting for 38.2 per cent, were recorded under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.