A 15-year-old girl was allegedly raped and murdered in Assam's Hailakandi district, prompting protests by local residents and a police investigation into the crime.
According to Additional Superintendent of Police Samir Daptar Barua, five people have been detained in connection with the case, including one who is reportedly a minor.
Police said the incident took place at around 11:30 pm on Saturday at a house located near National Highway 6. Preliminary information suggests that the accused allegedly took advantage of the absence of other family members to commit the crime.
Following the incident, angry residents staged a protest and blocked National Highway 6, demanding swift action against those responsible. The highway, which serves as a crucial road link between Assam and Mizoram, remained blocked for several hours, resulting in massive traffic congestion and leaving hundreds of vehicles stranded.
Police have launched an investigation into the case and are questioning the detained individuals. Further legal action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation.
Earlier this month, another alleged rape and murder case had shocked Assam's Sribhumi district. A 22-year-old man was apprehended by local residents and handed over to the police after he was accused of raping and murdering an eight-year-old girl.
According to police, the child had gone missing around 10 am. After searching for her, family members found her body in a forested area near a hillock close to their residence. Local residents identified the suspect, tracked him down and handed him over to the police.
The victim's family lodged an FIR alleging rape and murder. Police said the post-mortem examination was awaited to determine whether the child had been sexually assaulted.
Residents in Sribhumi had also alleged that police failed to reach the crime scene promptly, despite a police outpost being located approximately 300 metres away. Authorities have not commented on the allegation.
