Mumbai Police Arrest Father for Allegedly Raping and Impregnating Daughter
In a deeply disturbing case from Mumbai, city police have arrested a 50-year-old man for allegedly raping and impregnating his own 20-year-old daughter. The arrest came three months after a rape case was initially registered when the victim was found to be five months pregnant.
Background of the Accused and Family
The accused, who worked as a sweeper and took on odd jobs, resided in a slum area with his three children, all of whom suffer from mental health issues. The victim is the eldest child, with a younger brother and a 13-year-old sister. Their mother, who also had mental health problems, passed away several years ago, leaving the family in a vulnerable state.
Discovery of the Crime and Initial Investigation
The case first came to light in October 2025 when Cama and Albless Hospital informed the police about a mentally unstable woman admitted with abdominal pain who was discovered to be pregnant. Her grandmother had brought her to the hospital for treatment. Due to a speech disability, the victim was initially unable to identify her assailant, leading police to register a rape case based on the circumstances.
Following this, her pregnancy was terminated, and the foetus was sent for forensic analysis to gather crucial evidence. As the investigation progressed, it was revealed that multiple individuals had sexually assaulted the woman, complicating the case further.
Arrests and Identification Process
Police subsequently arrested a 32-year-old man and detained a 16-year-old from the Cuffe Parade slum after the victim identified them using photographs and visual aids. An NGO specializing in child rights played a key role by assisting in communication with the woman through therapeutic methods, helping her to share her traumatic experiences.
To narrow down the suspects, police collected DNA samples from 16 people, including the father, relatives, neighbours, and others who had access to the victim. This extensive sampling was part of a meticulous effort to pinpoint the perpetrators.
Breakthrough with DNA Evidence
During counselling sessions, the woman disclosed that her father had also sexually assaulted her, but she had not named him earlier out of fear. This revelation shifted the focus of the investigation. In late January, the Kalina Forensic Science Laboratory reported a critical finding: the father’s DNA matched that of the foetus, providing concrete evidence of his involvement.
Based on this DNA match, police arrested the father, who is now in judicial custody as the legal proceedings continue. The case highlights the severe challenges faced by individuals with mental health issues and disabilities in reporting crimes, as well as the importance of forensic science in uncovering the truth.
Implications and Ongoing Investigation
This tragic incident underscores the need for robust support systems for vulnerable populations and effective law enforcement mechanisms to address such heinous crimes. The police are continuing their investigation to ensure all perpetrators are brought to justice, while the victim receives the necessary care and support from authorities and NGOs.
