Koppal teen pregancy case: Karnataka Child Rights Commission registers suo motu complaint

The Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (KSCPCR) has registered a suo motu complaint based on media reports that a 16-year-old girl gave birth to a baby boy in the toilet of a hostel in Koppal area.

Commission Chairman Shashidhar S. Kosambe wrote to the district collector and Superintendent of Police of Koppal district regarding this. KSCPCR has asked the officials to submit necessary information regarding the measures taken by the district administration and the instructions given to the officials concerned within three days.

‘Glaring negligence’

The incident took place on November 26 at Sri D. Devaraj Urs Pre-Matric Girls’ Hostel, where the girl was residing. Kukanoor Police registered a case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses (POCSO) Act, 2012, against a 23-year-old man who was in a relationship with him with the promise of marrying him.

Six people, including hostel staff, teachers and healthcare workers, were also arrested for alleged negligence.

The commission’s letter said the negligence of hostel staff was “glaring”. “Based on all these factors and taking into account the interests of the hostel girls, a suo motu complaint has been registered with the commission,” the letter said. it said.

Following the incident, the mother and her child were taken to the district hospital and treated. Both were reported to be healthy.