A tragic case from Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram district has sparked widespread public outrage after a one-and-a-half-year-old boy was found dead with multiple injuries across his body. Police have arrested the child’s mother, Akhila, and her partner, Ashkar, in connection with the incident.
The victim, identified as Arshid, was living with his mother and Ashkar in a rented house in Karikkuzhy near Nedumangad. According to reports, the child’s biological father, S. Akhil, had died by suicide while Akhila was pregnant. Following his death, Akhila reportedly began living with Ashkar.
The child was rushed to hospital on May 29 after allegedly falling ill but was later declared dead at SAT Hospital in Thiruvananthapuram. Initially, Ashkar reportedly claimed that the toddler had choked on food, vomited and later became unresponsive while sleeping. However, post-mortem findings reportedly revealed a far more disturbing picture.
Authorities said the toddler had suffered approximately 51 injuries, including wounds on his genitals and the soles of his feet. Doctors also found evidence of severe internal bleeding believed to have caused his death. Investigators further stated that the autopsy revealed both fresh and partially healed injuries, suggesting the child may have been subjected to repeated physical abuse over a prolonged period.
Several burn marks were reportedly found on the child’s body, particularly on his feet. Authorities also said fractures in both of the toddler’s arms, previously claimed by the couple to have resulted from accidental falls, were determined to be caused by severe physical assault.
The case was subsequently registered as murder. Police said that at the time of the incident, Akhila was reportedly in Tamil Nadu attending a dance programme while Ashkar remained alone with the child.
During evidence collection, investigators allegedly discovered signs of possible tampering at the rented home. Authorities said certain areas of the house appeared to have been washed, possibly to remove bloodstains.
Police further stated that burnt remains of the child’s clothing and documents were allegedly found in the backyard, along with discarded plaster casts believed to have been used for the child’s fractured arms.
Officials are now investigating whether there was an attempt to destroy or conceal evidence following the child’s death.
Family members reportedly claimed they had long suspected the child was being abused. Relatives said the toddler had previously suffered fractures to both arms, although explanations provided by Akhila and Ashkar allegedly raised concerns.
Neighbours also stated that the family had lived in the area for around six months and generally kept to themselves. Several residents reported frequently hearing the child crying from inside the house.
Public anger intensified after details of the post-mortem findings became known.
On Sunday, police brought Ashkar to the rented house for evidence collection. A large crowd reportedly gathered outside, with some attempting to attack the accused despite heavy police presence. Officers faced difficulty escorting him through the crowd as residents demanded justice.
The case has also triggered strong reactions on social media, where many users expressed grief and outrage over the toddler’s death while calling for strict legal action against those responsible.
Police investigations are ongoing.
Source : NewsGram
