Thiruvananthapuram, 03 June (H.S.): The investigation into the death of one-year-old Arshit, who allegedly succumbed to injuries inflicted by his mother's live-in partner, has been transferred to the Nedumangad Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP) following the invocation of provisions under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989.

Police officials said the transfer was necessitated after additional charges under the SC/ST Act were included in the case, making it a more serious offence requiring investigation by a higher-ranking officer. The order transferring the probe was issued on Wednesday, officials confirmed.

The case took a dramatic turn after the postmortem examination reportedly revealed that the infant's death was the result of physical assault. Initially, the child's mother, Akhila, and her live-in partner, Ashkar, had claimed that the child suddenly fell ill at their residence on Friday evening.

According to the statement given by the accused, Arshit had been resting at home after having food when he became unwell around 4.30 p.m. The child was rushed to a nearby hospital but was declared dead at 6.08 p.m. Based on the information initially provided, police registered a case of unnatural death.

However, suspicions arose after medical examinations indicated signs of assault. The autopsy findings reportedly confirmed that the infant had sustained injuries consistent with physical abuse, prompting investigators to alter the course of the probe.

Police arrested both Ashkar and Akhila on Saturday night after evidence emerged suggesting that the child had died as a result of assault. Investigators believe Ashkar was primarily responsible for the abuse, although the role of the child's mother is also being examined.

Officials said the accused has allegedly confessed to assaulting the child during questioning. However, investigators are continuing efforts to determine the exact circumstances that led to the assault and the events that ultimately resulted in the infant's death.

Sources in the police department said the newly added charges carry severe punishment, including imprisonment exceeding 10 years if the allegations are proved in court.

Investigating Officer Satheesh said the final postmortem certificate is expected shortly and will play a crucial role in establishing the precise cause of death. Police said further action in the case will be based on the forensic and medical findings as the investigation progresses.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman