Thiruvananthapuram: A one-and-a-half-year-old child was found with approximately 51 injury and burn marks on his body, including on the genitals and soles of his feet, following his recent death in Nedumangad, a suburb of Thiruvananthapuram. The child’s mother and her live-in partner have been arrested in connection with the case.
The deceased toddler, Arshid, son of Akhila, was rushed to a hospital on Friday after reportedly showing discomfort while sleeping following a meal. He passed away later that night. A post-mortem examination uncovered extensive injuries, many of which appeared to be burn marks, particularly concentrated on the soles of his feet.
According to police, the child’s mother, Akhila, and her partner, Ashkar, a driver by profession, were taken into custody. Ashkar reportedly confessed to banging the child’s head against a wall when the toddler cried during feeding. He also admitted to inflicting burn injuries on the child’s sole using a lighter.
Local residents expressed outrage, attempting to attack Ashkar when he was brought to the residence for evidence collection on Sunday. The incident has drawn significant attention, highlighting concerns over child safety within households.
ALSO READ : Attendant Violently Assaults Toddler in Hyderabad, Sparks Outrage
Background details reveal a troubled family history. Arshid’s biological father died by suicide two years ago, shortly before the child’s birth. Akhila subsequently began living with Ashkar. In recent months, the toddler had suffered fractures in both hands. The couple claimed the injuries resulted from a fall from a cycle, but the child’s grandparents had grown suspicious of possible torture and sought custody. Authorities, however, permitted the mother to retain care of the child.
Investigators suspect prolonged brutal torture. Police sources indicated that Ashkar may be a habitual offender, with allegations that his first wife, Amina, endured severe assault and is currently in a coma. A detailed probe is underway to determine the full circumstances behind the abuse.
Kerala Women and Child Development Minister Bindu Krishna stated that measures would be implemented to prevent such horrific instances of child torture at home.
The case has sent shockwaves through the community, raising urgent questions about child protection and the effectiveness of intervention in cases of suspected domestic abuse. Authorities continue to investigate for further evidence.
-
-
-
-
