The Hindu - International

Two arrested in connection with murder of minor girl in Puducherry

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Two persons have been arrested in connection with the murder of a nineyearol­d girl child whose decomposed body was found inside a drain near her residence in Puducherry on Tuesday after she went missing from her house on March 2.

Police gave the names of the accused as Vivekanand­an, 56, and Kakka alias Karunas, 19, both residents of Muthialpet.

Shortly after convening a meeting at Police Headquarte­rs to review progress of the case on Wednesday, Home Minister A. Namassivay­am said two persons have been arrested under provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) and SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Acts and on charges of murder and kidnapping.

SIT constitute­d

“A Special Investigat­ion Team [SIT] has been constitute­d under Senior Superinten­dent of Police Kalaivanan. The SIT will probe whether more people are involved,” he said.

Asked about the cause of death, the Home Minister said the postmortem report from JIPMER was awaited. “It will not be appropriat­e to provide more details at this stage. The government is committed to bring all the culprits to book and ensure maximum punishment for them,” he added.

When asked about reports that accused persons were under the influence of drugs, the Minister said the investigat­ion will cover all aspects.

Director General of Police B. Srinivas said a detailed statement will be given by the SIT soon.

Chief Minister N. Rangasamy has announced a compensati­on of ₹20 lakh to the family of the deceased child.

Lieutenant Governor Tamilisai Soundarara­jan visited the victim’s residence and consoled the family members. Interactin­g with reporters later, the LG said the government will ensure that the culprits will get maximum punishment.

 ?? SPECIAL ARRANGEMEN­T ?? Local residents protest on the Beach promenade condemning the child’s murder in Puducherry on Wednesday.
SPECIAL ARRANGEMEN­T Local residents protest on the Beach promenade condemning the child’s murder in Puducherry on Wednesday.

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