Thiruvananthapuram | Kerala Minister Bindu Krishna on Saturday said the government would introduce new guidelines for anganwadis across the state following the alleged sexual assault of a three-and-a-half-year-old girl at an anganwadi in Kochi.

Speaking to reporters here, the state minister for women and child development described the incident as an "eye-opener" and stated that the government would tighten safety measures at anganwadis.

She said strict restrictions would be imposed on the entry of outsiders into anganwadi premises and that action would be taken after examining the official report on the incident.

"The incident has raised serious concerns because outsiders managed to enter a place considered one of the safest spaces for children," she said.

The minister said a comprehensive report had been sought from all anganwadis in the state, covering every aspect of safety and security.

"Once the report is received, the government will issue stricter norms and standard operating procedures. The existing system will be thoroughly reviewed, and a comprehensive mechanism will be put in place," she added.

A three-and-a-half-year-old girl was "sexually assaulted" at an anganwadi in Elamakkara, Kochi, recently.

The accused, a close relative of an anganwadi teacher, was later arrested by the police under the provisions of the POCSO Act.