Odisha Police Arrest Three in Horrific Tribal Girl Rape Case, Including Her Own Brother-in-Law

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In a chilling case from Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district, police have arrested three individuals, including the brother-in-law of an 11-year-old tribal girl, on charges of repeatedly raping the child over more than a month. The arrests were made after the girl’s mother complained to the Khunta police station on August 3.

According to the First Information Report (FIR), the assaults occurred between June 14 and July 27, during which the young victim was taken to multiple locations within the district and subjected to repeated sexual abuse. Police confirmed that one of the accused is a minor, who has since been sent to a Child Protection Home in Rourkela. The other two adult suspects, including the victim’s brother-in-law, were produced before a local court and remanded to judicial custody.

Officials stated that the charges fall under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses (POCSO) Act, both of which carry severe penalties for crimes against minors. The POCSO Act, in particular, mandates strict punishment for aggravated sexual assault, especially when the perpetrator is a relative or in a position of trust.

Investigators are gathering further evidence, including medical reports, witness statements, and forensic analysis, to build a strong case. Police said more details could emerge as the investigation progresses.

Child welfare advocates in the state have expressed deep concern over the incident, highlighting the vulnerability of tribal children in remote districts like Mayurbhanj. Factors such as poverty, lack of education, and limited access to law enforcement often leave children at higher risk of exploitation.

Authorities have assured that the survivor is receiving medical care and counseling to aid her recovery. The case has prompted renewed calls for community vigilance, better reporting mechanisms, and awareness campaigns to prevent crimes against children.

This incident follows several high-profile child abuse cases reported in Odisha in recent years, underscoring the urgent need for effective protection systems. While laws like the POCSO Act provide a strong legal framework, enforcement in rural and tribal areas remains challenging due to limited resources and social stigma surrounding sexual abuse.

Police have urged the public to report any suspected cases of abuse promptly and have reiterated their commitment to ensuring justice for the survivor. The investigation is ongoing, and further updates are expected as the case moves through the judicial process.