Handwara, June 20: In a shocking incident, a pregnant minor who was raped by a man committed suicide in Handwara, police said on Friday.
The horrifying crime came to light after her medical reports and DNA evidence confirmed the identity of the rapist, who has now been arrested.
The tragedy unfolded in a village in Handwara, where the minor girl (name withheld) was found hanging at her home after weeks of suffering in silence. She was immediately rushed to Handwara Hospital and then referred to SMHS Hospital Srinagar for treatment. But despite all medical efforts, she succumbed.
The case was formally registered as FIR No. 17/2025 at Police Station Qalamabad on May 6 under Sections 64 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and Sections 5(J)(II) and 6 of the POCSO Act — reserved for the most heinous crimes against children.
During the medical examination doctors found the girl was six months pregnant. Police launched an investigation, calling in several suspects. After sustained questioning and detailed forensic work, including DNA profiling, a man from Gulgam in Kupwara was not only involved in the assault but was confirmed to be the biological father of the foetus.
A senior police officer told Rising Kashmir that once the pregnancy was confirmed at Hospital, a thorough probe began.
“The girl was in a devastating state. She was later shifted to Srinagar but tragically didn’t survive,” the officer said.
After her death, a post-mortem was conducted and her body handed over to her family for last rites. The DNA match nailed the accused, who has since been arrested and is now in custody.
Locals in the area expressed outrage and demanded harsh punishment for the accused.
This heartbreaking case has reignited calls for stronger action against child sexual abuse, especially in rural areas where victims often suffer in silence, afraid to speak out.
