The Assam Police have arrested a 19-year-old man accused of sexually assaulting a Class 10 student and subjecting her to prolonged digital harassment, following his return from Goa. The arrest, carried out at Silchar’s Kumbirgram Airport, marks a significant development in a case that has triggered public concern over crimes against minors, misuse of technology, and the psychological impact of prolonged abuse.
According to police officials, the accused, identified as Rohit Biswas, was taken into custody shortly after landing in Silchar on Tuesday morning. He had reportedly fled the state soon after the victim lodged a formal complaint at Malugram Police Station on December 15. The police said the accused had remained absconding for several days, prompting intensified surveillance and coordination across states to track his movements.
Allegations of Prolonged Abuse and Coercion
The survivor, a Class 10 student, alleged in her complaint that the accused repeatedly coerced her into sexual relations over a period of nearly eight months. According to investigators, the accused allegedly threatened the minor with severe consequences, including physical harm, to silence her. The complaint further states that the accused used intimidation and emotional manipulation to continue the abuse, exploiting the victim’s fear and vulnerability.
Police sources revealed that the accused allegedly forced his way into the minor’s residence when she was alone and took private photographs without her consent. These images were later used as tools of blackmail, further trapping the victim in a cycle of abuse and fear. The survivor’s family informed authorities that the accused also threatened an acid attack, significantly escalating the gravity of the intimidation.
Digital Harassment and Alleged Misuse of Technology
One of the most disturbing aspects of the case involves allegations of digital harassment. According to the police complaint, the accused circulated objectionable photos and videos of the minor on social media platforms. The family further alleged that artificial intelligence-based tools were misused to create manipulated and deepfake content, which was uploaded through fake social media accounts created in the victim’s name.
Investigators said the circulation of such content caused severe emotional distress to the minor, forcing her to withdraw from school and social interactions. The victim’s mother reportedly expressed concern over her daughter’s mental health, stating that fear and humiliation had left her unwilling to attend classes or step outside freely. Mental health professionals have repeatedly warned that such digital abuse can have long-term psychological consequences, particularly for minors.
Legal Provisions and Charges Invoked
Police confirmed that the case has been registered under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including provisions related to rape, criminal intimidation, voyeurism, extortion, and acts intended to insult the modesty of a woman. In addition, stringent sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act have been invoked, including those relating to aggravated penetrative sexual assault and circulation of child sexual abuse material.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Cachar, Partha Pratim Das, stated that the charges reflect the seriousness of the allegations and the need for strict legal action. “The investigation is being conducted with utmost sensitivity and seriousness, keeping the survivor’s safety and well-being as the top priority,” the SSP said, adding that digital evidence and forensic inputs are being carefully examined.
Arrest Following Return from Goa
The accused was apprehended shortly after returning to Silchar from Goa, where he had reportedly been staying to evade arrest. Police said his movements were closely monitored after credible information was received about his return. The swift arrest at the airport prevented any further attempt to abscond and ensured his immediate production before the court.
Authorities also revealed that the accused returned to Silchar two days after his father was arrested in connection with the same case. The father, a businessman and religious preacher by profession, was taken into custody on charges of allegedly threatening the victim and her family members. Police officials stated that the father’s involvement had posed challenges during the initial stages of the investigation, particularly in ensuring the safety of the survivor and her family.
Family Demands Strict Punishment
The victim’s family has demanded the strictest possible punishment for all those involved in the case. The survivor’s mother has publicly appealed for swift justice, stating that the prolonged abuse and digital harassment have caused irreparable emotional harm to her daughter. “No child should go through such trauma. The law must ensure accountability so that others are deterred from committing such crimes,” she said.
Child rights activists have echoed similar concerns, highlighting the urgent need for stronger safeguards against technology-enabled sexual crimes. They have also called for faster judicial processes in cases involving minors to prevent prolonged trauma and ensure timely justice.
Broader Concerns Over Crimes Against Minors
The case has reignited discussions around crimes against minors, particularly the growing misuse of digital platforms to harass and exploit children. Law enforcement officials have emphasized that parents, schools, and communities must remain vigilant and encourage minors to report abuse without fear or stigma.
Police authorities reiterated that victims of sexual crimes, especially minors, are entitled to confidentiality, protection, and comprehensive support under the law. Counseling and medical assistance are being provided to the survivor as part of the standard victim care protocol.
Investigation Continues
The police have stated that further arrests are not being ruled out as the investigation progresses. Digital forensics teams are analyzing electronic devices seized during the probe to identify the source and spread of the objectionable content. Authorities are also coordinating with cybercrime units to ensure complete removal of any harmful material from online platforms.
As the case moves forward, officials have urged the public to refrain from sharing unverified information or sensational content related to the incident. “Responsible reporting and public sensitivity are crucial to protecting the dignity of the survivor and ensuring a fair investigation,” the SSP added.