Kerala rape case: Social Justice minister seeks detailed report

New Delhi: Social Justice and Empowerment Ministry has sought a report from Kerala government in connection with the rape and burtal murder of a 30-year-old Dalit woman in Ernakulam district.

The Department of Social Justice and Empowerment has sought a detailed report in the incident, a senior Ministry official said.

"The victim as reported in the media is a Dalit but we have to verify the facts. Also, we need to find out if the accused belongs to non-Dalit community, because only then the case will come under Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Act, 2015. And as per the provisions of the Act, the benefits and relief will be given to the family," he added.

Also, Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Thaawar Chand Gehlot will on Thursday visit Rayamangalam village in Ernakulam district and meet the deceased woman's family.

Gehlot will hold a meeting with the senior district officials, including the District Collector and Superintendent of Police.

"The Minister will go to Rayamangalam village in Ernakulam district and meet the bereaved family of the deceased girl. After that, he will hold a meeting with the senior district officials including the District Collector and Superintendent of Police and others to verify the facts. Also to see how the family can be given help," the official said.

According to sources, Gehlot's visit to the village is on instructions from the Prime Minister's Office.

The woman, a law student from a poor family, was allegedly subjected to rape and brutal assault using sharp edged weapons before being murdered at her house in Perumbavoor on April 28.

Three persons have been taken into custody by police for questioning.