Gujarat: 15-year-old raped by cousin, delivers baby in bathroom; newborn dies

AHMEDABAD: A 15-year-old girl gave birth in a bathroom during a family event in Bapunagar area of Ahemdabad on Sep 7. The newborn was later declared dead. Police said that attendees heard noises near the women's bathroom, where the newborn was found in a flush tank and informed them.Investigation revealed that the girl, resident of Kalol town in Gandhinagar, became pregnant allegedly after being raped multiple times by her cousin from Banaskatha, while he was was staying with her family. The assaults reportedly began about eight months ago when the girl's parents were away, said police. The girl's mother told police that the accused was her sister's son. Police said that the girl's family had returned to Kalol, unaware of the child birth until they received a call from Ahmedabad. The girl's aunt questioned her about the newborn, leading to her confession. The girl admitted to giving birth and explained that her cousin had allegedly raped her multiple times. She was scared and hence did not disclose it to family. The girl recounted that she unexpectedly gave birth during after she went to the bathroom following pain in the abdomen.The Bapunagar police have registered a case of rape and under relevant sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Pocso) Act on Thursday and started investigation. The girl's mother, who filed the complaint, stated that the family was unaware of the pregnancy.The police have initiated an investigation, questioning family members and attendees of the ceremony.(The victim's identity has not been revealed to protect her privacy as per Supreme Court directives on cases related to sexual assault)