The Senapati District Students' Association (SDSA) has made a clarification regarding the viral photo of three girls, alleged to have raped a boy and another photo of a shirtless boy with red marks on his face, alleged to be the victim.
The photos of the 3 girls and the boy with red marks have been going viral lately in social media. Some social media users have been claiming that the boy had been raped by the three girls.
In its clarification, SDSA stated that the viral photo of the 3 girls is related to the missing case of 3 minor girls who went absconding from home and were later apprehended after a hectic search, loitering around with friends on the 17th of April, 2024.
After being handed over to their respective guardians, two of the girls absconded from their home again and were reported missing again on the 24rd of April, 2024 and ongoing efforts are being made to locate them, stated a release issued by SDSA
The assoiation clarified that the photo of a shirtless boy with red marks on his face, alleged to be the victim of rape, is not a victim, but rather someone who assisted in the girls absconding from the guardians and the police.
Stating that it is imperative to recognize that such matters are sensitive matters involving minors, SDSA added that allegations of sexual offenses against minors carry severe legal consequences under the POCSO Act, 2012.
Besides, any dissemination of false information or baseless accusations is not only harmful but also illegal stated the release
SDSA also cautioned that those found spreading such misinformation will be dealt with strictly under the Law.
The association urged the public to exercise caution and responsibility in sharing information on social media platforms.
Verifying the accuracy of information before dissemination is crucial to prevent the propagation of false narratives and protect the integrity and well-being of all individuals involved, the release added.