A shocking incident of sexual assault has come to light in Illendu, Bhadradri district, where a 17-year-old boy, allegedly addicted to drugs, sexually assaulted two six-year-old girls from his village. The accused lured the girls to a house by promising to show them magic, while another child managed to escape and informed her parents about the horrific incident.The victims and the accused belong to the same caste, which led the caste elders to hold a panchayat and decide to keep the matter under wraps, warning the victims’ families of expulsion from the caste if they complained ¹. However, the matter became public, and ICDS officials visited the village on Saturday to investigate. Despite initial reluctance from locals, the victims’ families mustered the courage to file a complaint with the Illendu police, leading to the registration of a case.This disturbing incident highlights the need for increased awareness and vigilance to protect children from sexual abuse. It also underscores the importance of reporting such crimes, despite societal pressures or threats of ostracism.The swift action taken by the authorities is commendable, and it’s crucial that the accused is brought to justice.