Five minors have been booked by Uttar Pradesh police in connection with the alleged gang rape of a nine-year-old girl in a village in Shahjahanpur district.
The incident reportedly occurred on Friday evening when the victim, a Dalit child, was playing with other children on a school ground. According to Circle Officer (Tilhar) Vidush Saxena, the accused minors, aged between 10 and 14 years, are alleged to have taken the girl to a nearby field.
According to details received by The Chenab Times, the First Information Report (FIR) registered in the case states that the girl’s family alleged the accused gang-raped her in the field and fled when the owner of the land spotted them. The child later returned home and informed her mother about the assault. A complaint was lodged, and a case was registered late on Friday night.
Police have registered a case under various stringent laws, including the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, and the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. These legislative frameworks are designed to ensure severe penalties for crimes against children and those targeting vulnerable communities.
The accused minors are currently being questioned by law enforcement officials, with their guardians present during the proceedings. The victim has been sent for a medical examination as per standard procedure in such cases. The district administration has initiated measures to provide support and counselling to the victim and her family.
Shahjahanpur, a district in the Rohilkhand region of Uttar Pradesh, has been the site of various social and criminal incidents. The incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding child safety and the implementation of protective measures in rural areas of the state. Authorities have emphasized their commitment to a thorough investigation and ensuring justice for the survivor.
The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which replaced the Indian Penal Code, carries provisions for severe punishment for heinous crimes. The POCSO Act specifically addresses the sexual exploitation of children and aims to provide a robust legal framework for their protection. The SC/ST Act is intended to prevent atrocities against members of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
Legal experts note that the booking of minors in such cases involves specific procedures under juvenile justice laws, balancing the need for accountability with the rehabilitation of young offenders. The medical examination of the victim is a crucial piece of evidence in building the case.
The incident has drawn condemnation from various social organizations and calls for stricter enforcement of child protection laws across the state. Police have appealed to the public to share any relevant information that could aid in the investigation. The focus remains on ensuring a swift and fair resolution to the case.
The Chenab Times News Desk