Two Minor Girls Hurt in Acid Attack by Father in Kerala

Two minor girls were injured in an acid attack allegedly perpetrated by the father of one of the victims in Panathadi village, located in Kerala’s northern Kasaragod district. The attack, which took place on Friday morning, has left the local community reeling and prompted a police manhunt for the accused, identified as Manoj K.C., a 48-year-old resident of Karike in Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka.

According to the Rajapuram police, the incident occurred around 10:30 a.m. at the home of Manoj’s brother-in-law in Parakadavu, Panathadi. Manoj, who reportedly had a strained relationship with his wife, visited the house where she was staying after leaving him due to frequent disputes. While his 17-year-old daughter and her 10-year-old cousin were playing in the courtyard, Manoj allegedly poured acid, typically used for processing rubber sheets, on the girls before fleeing the scene.

The 17-year-old suffered burns on her hand and thigh, while her younger cousin sustained minor burns on her face and hands, as detailed in the First Information Report (FIR). Both victims were immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, where they are receiving medical treatment and are reported to be stable.

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The police have registered a case against Manoj under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including charges of criminal trespass, voluntarily causing grievous hurt by acid, attempt to murder, and criminal intimidation. A large-scale search is underway to apprehend Manoj, with authorities coordinating efforts across Kerala and Karnataka. “We are working to trace the accused, and if needed, we will seek assistance from Karnataka police,” a Rajapuram police official stated.

The attack has sparked outrage in the region, with local residents calling for swift justice. The incident underscores the persistent issue of gender-based violence and the devastating impact of domestic disputes, prompting renewed discussions on stricter measures to curb such acts.

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