2 mentally challenged girls sexually assaulted in Andhra Pradesh; accused arrested

VIJAYAWADA: A 19-year-old was arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting two minor girls from Patamata in Vijayawada on Saturday. Both survivors are around 15 years old and are mentally unsound, police said.The incident came to light after one of the girls informed her parents that the accused had been behaving inappropriately with her for some time. Growing suspicious, the parents spoke to another girl living in the same locality and found that she too was subjected to sexual assault in a similar manner. The girls informed their parents that they were assaulted in an old dilapidated building and were also given food.Signs of sexual assault found, accused held Sources said the survivors, who are mentally challenged, were in a state of shock and initially unable to clearly explain the incidents.

Following a complaint, police initiated an investigation and shifted the survivors to Vijayawada govt hospital for medical examination. Doctors who examined the girls reportedly indicated signs consistent with sexual assault. Based on the findings, a case has been registered by the police under relevant sections of POCSO Act, and further investigation is underway. The accused has been taken into custody and is being questioned. Authorities stated that they are ensuring proper medical care and counselling support for the survivors.(The victim's identity has not been revealed to protect their privacy as per Supreme court directives on cases related to sexual assault)