Daijiworld Media Network - Hyderabad

Hyderabad, Oct 23: A 62-year-old man, Tatika Narayana Rao, arrested in connection with the sexual assault of a 13-year-old girl in Kakinada district, Andhra Pradesh, died by suicide on Wednesday while in police custody. Rao reportedly jumped into the Komati Cheruvu Lake near Tuni while being taken to a local court, after requesting a bathroom break.

Rao, who is said to have political affiliations, faced multiple charges under the POCSO Act (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences). He was arrested Tuesday after villagers raised an alarm. According to police, the survivor, a Class VIII student, was allegedly lured from school by Rao, who posed as her grandfather, and taken to a public garden. A second man confronted Rao at the location and raised the alarm.

The arrest triggered widespread outrage, with parents and members of the Dalit community protesting and demanding accountability, including suspension of the school principal. Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh condemned the incident, assuring that the guilty would face severe punishment, while the YSR Congress mobilised support for the survivor’s family, alleging Rao’s political links to the TDP. The TDP has not commented on the claims.

Authorities confirmed a procedural lapse at the school, which is under review. Officials urged depoliticisation of the case and warned against sharing videos or images that reveal the girl’s identity, a punishable offence under POCSO.

The Andhra Pradesh Women’s Commission has taken suo motu cognizance, directing authorities to provide protection, medical aid, and legal support for the survivor and her family. A detailed report has been requested within 48 hours. Further details on Rao’s custodial suicide will be released following a post-mortem and departmental inquiry.