Bhubaneswar: In an extremely shocking incident, a three-year old girl died after she was allegedly raped by a relative in Bhubaneswar on Monday.  The minor succumbed while undergoing treatment in a critical state in Capital Hospital. While the accused, identified as Santosh Khuntia (25) is absconding, police have arrested his friend in this connection.

As per reports, the child was living with her parents in Sundarpada area of the Capital and was allegedly raped when she was alone at home. The minor's mother, in her police complaint, claimed that Santosh was their neighbour and committed the heinous act while they were away. He, then fled the scene. The child was found in a critical state and rushed to the hospital immediately but she succumbed during treatment.

A case in Airfield police station has been filed. Acting on the complaint, police started investigation and have arrested a friend of the accused. Meanwhile, the mother of the accused has dismissed the rape allegation and denied knowledge of his whereabouts. "I have no idea where my son is. His phone is unreachable. If he is proven guilty, he should be punished as per law, she told mediapersons.