A 16-year-old girl was allegedly raped inside a moving car in Tripura’s Gomati district. Police arrested two suspects, including a relative of the victim. The case has been registered under the POCSO Act and BNS sections. Investigation continues with forensic examination and court proceedings underway.
A shocking incident has come to light in Tripura’s Gomati district where a 16-year-old girl was allegedly raped inside a moving car by two youths. Police confirmed on Friday that they have arrested two suspects in connection with the crime, sparking widespread outrage and renewed demands for stronger action against crimes targeting women and children.
The two accused, identified as Mithun Debnath (24) and Bower Debbarma (24), both residents of Maharani in the Gomati district, were taken into custody following the girl’s complaint and preliminary investigation. According to officials, Mithun Debnath is a relative of the victim, which has made the case even more disturbing for the local community.
Incident after temple visit
According to police reports, the minor girl, accompanied by two of her neighbors, had gone to Tripura Sundari temple, a revered religious site located in Udaipur, Gomati district, on Thursday evening. After completing the temple visit, the group set out for Udaipur railway station in a car.
During the journey, the two accused allegedly raped the girl inside the moving vehicle. Police sources stated that the victim later disclosed the horrific details during interrogation after the suspects were detained at the Kakraban checkgate while returning home.
A police official said:
“On the way to the railway station, Mithun and Bower reportedly raped her in the moving vehicle. The victim informed us about the assault when the suspects were stopped at Kakraban checkgate.”
Arrest and investigation
Following a complaint lodged by the victim’s family on Friday, police arrested Mithun Debnath and Bower Debbarma for their alleged involvement in the crime. A forensic team was immediately dispatched to examine the car in which the assault reportedly took place.
The minor girl was also produced before a local court to record her statement before a magistrate, which is a mandatory step under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. Officials assured that the girl’s medical and psychological well-being is being prioritized during the investigation.
Legal action under POCSO and BNS
Police have registered a case under Section 4 of the POCSO Act, which deals with penetrative sexual assault on a child. Additionally, charges have been filed under Sections 64(1) and 61(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the new criminal code that replaced the Indian Penal Code earlier this year.
Both accused are currently under interrogation, and officials indicated that further details would emerge as the investigation progresses. Authorities have also assured the victim’s family that the case will be handled with urgency and sensitivity.
Community and police response
The disturbing nature of the crime has sparked shockwaves across Gomati district, particularly because the incident involved individuals known to the victim. Local residents have demanded a fast-track trial and stringent punishment for the accused, highlighting broader concerns about rising crimes against women and minors in the region.
A senior police officer stated:
“We are committed to ensuring a thorough and fair investigation. Such heinous acts will not be tolerated, and the culprits will face the strictest possible legal action.”
Rising concerns over crimes against minors
This incident has once again raised questions about the safety of young girls and women in Tripura. Despite various awareness campaigns and stricter legal provisions under POCSO and the new BNS framework, cases of sexual violence continue to emerge. Activists and women’s rights groups have reiterated the need for stronger preventive measures, including community vigilance, education on gender sensitivity, and improved law enforcement mechanisms.
| Also Read: Tripura Minister highlights Potential of Exotic Fruits in boosting Agriculture |
The state police have also appealed to parents and guardians to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities immediately. Officials said efforts are being made to create safer public spaces and to expedite investigations in cases involving minors.
As the investigation continues, all eyes remain on the judicial process to see whether swift justice will be delivered in this case, setting a precedent for zero tolerance against crimes targeting children and vulnerable individuals.
