3 men held for raping mentally-challenged minor in Baramulla

Jammu and Kashmir Police on Thursday said it has achieved a critical breakthrough in the investigation of a sexual assault case involving a mentally challenged minor girl, resulting in the identification and arrest of three accused through sustained forensic and investigative efforts.

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Police in north Kashmir’s Baramulla said on receiving information in January 2025, Kunzer Police Station registered a case under relevant sections of the POCSO Act and BNS after a 16-year-old girl was found to be 25-weeks pregnant during a medical examination at the Sub District Hospital, Magam.

Police said the investigation revealed the minor had been repeatedly assaulted by multiple perpetrators.

Initial inquiries led to the arrest of Mohd Rafiq Bhat and Mohd Nasarullah Khan, who were arrested for rape, aggravated sexual assault, and kidnapping under POCSO provisions, though “DNA analysis excluded both of them as the father.”

Police said through persistent efforts, investigators focused on Jawad Alam as a prime suspect. “Forensic matching confirmed his DNA matched the foetus, establishing him as the biological father and confirming his role in the sexual assault leading to the pregnancy,” police said.

Police investigations confirmed that all three accused independently assaulted the victim on multiple occasions, with Alam responsible for the conception.

Police said this case reflects Baramulla Police’s relentless commitment “to securing justice for the most vulnerable.”

“Despite initial forensic complexities, our team employed methodical investigation and advanced technology to identify all perpetrators. We reaffirm our zero-tolerance stance towards crimes against children and will ensure rigorous prosecution,” police said.

Baramulla Police urged anyone with additional information on this case or related incidents to come forward.