Sulur girl murder: 819-page chargesheet filed, POCSO trial to begin
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
The Coimbatore District Police on Wednesday, 10 June filed a 819-page chargesheet before a special court in the case involving the abduction, sexual assault, and murder of a 10-year-old girl from Pallapalayam near Sulur, whose body was recovered last month. The document was submitted before the Special POCSO Court, formally concluding the investigation phase and paving the way for trial.
Key Developments in the Case
The chargesheet, e-filed on Tuesday by the investigating team led by Deputy Superintendent of Police Karikal Pari Shankar, contains statements from 104 prosecution witnesses and 215 documents. It includes scientific evidence, post-mortem findings, forensic reports, witness testimonies, and documentary records compiled during the probe.
The victim's body was found on 22 May in a private property near the Kannampalayam tank, triggering widespread public outrage across Coimbatore district and prompting an intensive police response.
Accused Charged Under BNS and POCSO Act
Police arrested K. Karthi (35) and R. Mohan (31), both residents of Pallapalayam, on 23 May — within a day of the body being discovered. Karthi has been charged under multiple provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. Mohan faces charges under relevant sections of the BNS and POCSO Act related to his alleged role in the crime.
Investigation Completed in 18 Days
Inspector-General of Police (West Zone) R.V. Ramya Bharathi said the swift progress was the result of close coordination among multiple police units and the timely receipt of forensic reports. She also noted that two eyewitnesses came forward voluntarily and assisted investigators.
The probe involved DNA profiling, potency tests on the first accused, cyber forensic analysis, and a review of communication and movement records. According to police, the investigation was completed within 18 days of the arrests — an unusually rapid turnaround for a case of this complexity.
What Happens Next
With the chargesheet now on record, the Special POCSO Court will take up further proceedings in accordance with the law. The trial is expected to be conducted under the expedited framework prescribed for POCSO cases, which mandates completion within one year of cognisance. This case is among the most closely watched criminal proceedings in Tamil Nadu this year, given the public outcry that followed the child's death.