Patna: A 15-year-old girl, who was allegedly raped by a 55-year-old neighbour in Patna district around seven months ago, was found pregnant during a medical examination conducted at a hospital after she complained of persistent abdominal pain and swelling on Friday. The girl’s mother subsequently lodged a complaint, following which police registered a case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act against the suspect.According to the girl’s family, they were unaware of the pregnancy until her health deteriorated and she began complaining of persistent abdominal pain and swelling. She was taken to a hospital, where doctors informed the family that she was pregnant. The girl disclosed the alleged sexual assault, following which her mother approached the police on Friday and lodged a complaint.Locals claimed the family mistook the girl’s pregnancy-related symptoms for the influence of a “bad spirit” and did not realise she was pregnant until she was taken to hospital. However, the police denied the claim and said they were unaware of any such assumption by the family.Police officer Kunal Kumar said the matter was sensitive as the victim is a minor. “Further investigation has been initiated on the basis of the girl’s statement and other evidence. Legal action is underway,” he said.Kumar said the girl’s medical examination was underway and investigators were verifying the allegations. As the alleged incident occurred around seven months ago, police were collecting evidence and examining all aspects of the case before proceeding with the arrest of the accused.
