AAP alleges political interference in minor's sex assault probe

The AAP in Goa has alleged political interference in the police investigation of a sexual assault case in which a 10-year-old girl was allegedly molested by a physical education teacher who is still at large.

In a statement issued here on Saturday, Aam Aadmi Party convenor Rajeshree Nagarsekar expressed shock at the police inability to nab the 59-year-old teacher, who has been on the run since Thursday.

"AAP Goa demands that the local MLA Dayanand Mandrekar, who is also the water resource development minister, issue a statement immediately as to whether he is aware of any political pressure on the police to shield the accused," Nagarsekar said.

While Mandrekar was not available for comment, sources close to the minister said police were investigating the case without fear or favour.

"There is no chance of interference. The accused has been missing since the complaint was filed," a source close to the minister said.

According to the complaint filed at the Mapusa police station, the teacher took the 10-year-old girl to the toilet in the school premises and allegedly fondled her private parts.

Nagarsekar said the state administration as well as school managements have failed to comprehensively tackle sex crimes in schools.

"AAP Goa reminds school managements that they are responsible for the safety of every student under their supervision and the accountability of every adult in their employment," the statement said.

Three years ago, the rape of a minor girl in a school in the port town of Vasco had forced the state government to come up with a plan to beef up security in schools. The rape case in the Vasco school is still unresolved.