Tamil Nadu Police Probe Murder of Minor After Sexual Advance Rejection

A 17-year-old school student has been detained for allegedly murdering another minor boy in Tamil Nadu's Pudukkottai district after the victim reportedly rejected his sexual advance, police said on Tuesday. The accused has been booked under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act. He has been sent to a juvenile observation home while the investigation continues.

According to police, both the accused and the victim were school students, lived in the same neighbourhood and belonged to the same Dalit community. Investigators alleged that the accused took the younger boy to an isolated location and asked him to engage in a sexual act. Police said the accused allegedly strangled the victim with a towel after the boy refused.

A senior police officer said the accused allegedly panicked after the victim rejected the advance, fearing that the incident would be disclosed to others. Police subsequently apprehended the teenager and initiated legal proceedings. As the accused is a minor, his identity has not been disclosed in accordance with the law.

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The case comes at a time when Tamil Nadu has witnessed growing concern over crimes involving minors. The incident has also triggered political reactions, with leaders expressing concern over law and order and the need for stronger guidance and protection for children and adolescents.

Chief Minister Vijay, while addressing a conference of district collectors and superintendents of police, directed officials to take stringent action against crime and ensure that offenders do not escape punishment. He also stressed that there would be no compromise on public safety, particularly the safety of women and children.

Police said the investigation is ongoing and further evidence is being collected. Officials have urged the public not to speculate about the case while the probe is underway. Further legal action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation.

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