The Palarivattom police in Kerala on Tuesday (March 4) registered a case under the Protection of Children against Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act for alleged sexual abuse of a minor girl by her minor brother.

The alleged perpetrator was 14-years-old and the victim, two years younger. The case was registered on an intimation moved by the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU). The alleged incident took place at the house of the children concerned and came to light through the child helpline on Monday.

Though there were reports that linked the alleged incident to substance abuse by the boy, the police said that nothing of that sort could be confirmed at this point and that the probe was under way.

“Based on an initial assessment, our counsellor has reported concerns about the mental wellbeing of the girl and recommended the service of a clinical psychologist. She was also found to be having suicidal tendencies. Her claims that she has been sexually abused by her brother needs to be verified,” said Vincent Joseph, chairperson, Child Welfare Committee, Ernakulam.

The CWC forwarded the report to the DCPU, which in turn forwarded it to the District Resource Centre on Tuesday.