A probe conducted by the District Child Protection Officer (DCPO) at an old-age home in Omalloor has found that a 17-year-old boy was subjected to child labour and physical assault while staying at the institution.

The inquiry was launched after the boy, who had returned to his home in Idukki district from the old-age home, informed Childline about the alleged abuse. During the inspection, officials also identified another 17-year-old boy from Kottayam staying at the facility. The rescued minor was produced before the Child Welfare Committee (CWC).

Following the findings, police registered a case against the old-age home’s manager Reji, and staff members Sijo and Benny. The case was initially registered by the Kattappana police and has since been transferred to the Pathanamthitta police for further investigation, as the institution is located within their jurisdiction.

The accused have been booked under various provisions, including charges related to physical assault, causing hurt using a weapon, wrongful confinement, child labour, and offences under the Juvenile Justice Act. The police have launched further investigation into the incident and the functioning of the institution.