Hyderabad: Former minister and BRS deputy floor leader Harish Rao on Thursday demanded a fast-track court in the Khammam minor assault case and sought the strictest punishment for those responsible.
Harish Rao, along with former minister Sunitha Lakshma Reddy, visited NIMS Hospital and met the 12-year-old girl who is undergoing treatment. The leaders also interacted with doctors to review her medical condition and treatment.
They urged the medical team to provide the best possible care and assured the victim’s family of continued support.
Speaking to the media after the visit, Harish Rao described the Khammam minor assault case as deeply disturbing. He alleged that the incident reflected a serious deterioration in law and order under the Congress government.
“The very thought of such a heinous crime against a 12-year-old school-going child brings tears to one’s eyes. It is a tragedy that forces society to bow its head in shame,” he said.
Khammam minor assault case sparks demand for action
Harish Rao questioned the government’s response to the incident and accused it of neglecting the victim.
He said the girl suffered fractures in both hands and currently could not walk. According to him, doctors indicated that her recovery would be difficult.
“A young life has been devastated,” he said.
The BRS leader urged the government to immediately constitute a fast-track court and ensure severe punishment for the accused.
He also alleged that the state had witnessed a rise in crimes against children. He claimed that five to six POCSO cases were being reported daily across Telangana.
Khammam minor assault case raises safety concerns
Referring to incidents involving minor girls in Yalal, Bomraspet, Basheerabad, Mominpet and Nirmal, Harish Rao said the increasing number of such crimes reflected failures in ensuring child safety.
Citing NCRB data, he claimed that POCSO cases in Telangana increased from around 2,200 in 2024 to nearly 2,400 in 2025.
Harish Rao also urged the government to provide Rs 10 lakh as ex-gratia to the victim’s family.
He sought immediate surgeries for the girl and asked the government to bear the full cost of her treatment until her recovery.