Thiruvananthapuram, 02 June (H.S):The death of 18-month-old Arshid, allegedly murdered by his stepfather in Kerala’s Panavoor near Nedumangad, was caused by a forceful kick to the chest that fractured seven ribs and resulted in severe internal injuries, according to the detailed postmortem report submitted before the court.

Police informed the court that the child suffered extensive trauma, with the fractured ribs causing critical damage to internal organs, ultimately leading to his death. The report also revealed swelling at five locations on the head caused by blunt-force injuries. Investigators said the toddler’s body bore a total of 91 injuries, including both fresh and old wounds, indicating prolonged physical abuse.

According to the remand report, the accused, Ashkar, had allegedly viewed the child as an obstacle to his future with the boy’s mother, Akhila. Police alleged that he had been planning the murder for nearly a month and had subjected the child to repeated acts of cruelty in the weeks leading up to the fatal assault.

The incident occurred last Friday. Ashkar reportedly took the child to a hospital claiming that the boy had vomited while eating rice. However, the child was declared dead shortly thereafter, prompting suspicions and a detailed investigation.

The postmortem examination found nearly a hundred injuries across the child’s body, including burn marks and signs of severe beatings. Investigators said roughly half of the injuries were older wounds, suggesting that the child had been subjected to sustained abuse over an extended period.

During detailed questioning, Ashkar allegedly confessed to the crime. Police said he admitted that the child had been crying while being fed and that he struck the boy violently on the head after becoming frustrated when the crying did not stop. The blow reportedly caused the child to lose consciousness.

Police have charged Akhila, the child’s mother, with abetment. During preliminary questioning, she reportedly admitted that Ashkar had physically assaulted the child on several occasions. The investigation is continuing.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman