A Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) driver has been arrested after a 32-year-old woman alleged that she was sexually assaulted while travelling on a state-run bus near Haripad in Alappuzha district. Police have registered a case under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and initiated further investigation.
According to police, the alleged incident occurred on Saturday morning while the woman was travelling to her workplace on a KSRTC bus. Investigators are examining the complaint, witness statements and other available evidence as part of the inquiry.
Woman Alleges Sexual Assault During KSRTC Bus Journey
Police said the incident took place at around 6.30 am when the woman was travelling on a KSRTC bus to her workplace.
According to the complaint, the woman had reportedly fallen asleep during the journey when the alleged assault took place.
After reaching her destination, she approached the police and lodged a complaint, following which Haripad Police registered a case and initiated legal proceedings.
"Police acted on the woman's complaint, registered a case and initiated legal action before arresting the accused," officials said.
KSRTC Driver Arrested Under BNS
The accused, a driver employed by the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation, was taken into custody shortly after the complaint was filed.
Police registered a case under Section 74 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which pertains to the use of assault or criminal force against a woman with the intent to outrage her modesty.
In accordance with legal and ethical norms, authorities have not disclosed the identities of the complainant or the accused.
Haripad Police Continue Investigation
Haripad Police are continuing the investigation to establish the sequence of events surrounding the alleged incident.
Investigators are recording statements from witnesses, examining available evidence and collecting other material relevant to the case.
Officials stated that further legal action will depend on the findings of the investigation.
"The investigation is underway, and appropriate action will be taken based on the evidence collected," police said.
Police have also reiterated the importance of reporting offences against women promptly and stated that the case will be investigated in accordance with the provisions of the law.
