Dharwad: A minor girl from a village in Dharwad taluk died by suicide after being subjected to mental harassment by a Muslim youth, alleged Dalit Sangharsh Samiti (DSS) leader Hemavati T.
Speaking to media persons here on Tuesday, Hemavati charged that one Nayeem Baig of Hanumanakoppa had harassed the girl after pretending to be in a relationship with her.
She said that unable to bear the harassment, the girl consumed insecticide on May 8 in an attempt to end her life. The girl was admitted to Karnataka Medical College and Research Institute (KMCRI), but succumbed to her condition on May 9, despite treatment, she added.
Hemavati further alleged that the girl's mobile phone contained photographs taken along with the accused. The mobile phone of the accused was switched off after the girl's death.
Although a case has been registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, the accused has not yet been arrested.
She alleged: "The police have also acted in favour of the youth in this case. As a result, the case was registered only 15 days after the girl's death, following the directions of the Superintendent of Police."
She claimed that the girl's illiterate parents were being sidelined and the police were attempting to hush up the
case.
Demand action
She demanded an immediate, thorough investigation and strict action against the guilty. Otherwise, they (DSS office-bearers) along with the victim's parents would launch a dharna, seeking justice,
she warned.