Juvenile Accused of Dragging Minor Girl in Hapur Lane, Incident Captured on CCTV
In a disturbing incident that has sparked widespread concern, a 12-year-old boy from the Kotwali Nagar area of Hapur has been accused of dragging a minor girl as she was returning home from tuition classes. The alleged act, which police say was intended to outrage her modesty, occurred around 7 PM on Friday evening.
Details of the Alleged Assault
The victim, along with her cousin and stepsister—all belonging to a minority community—was crossing a lane near a mosque when the juvenile allegedly accosted them. According to police reports and eyewitness accounts, the boy grabbed the hand of one of the girls and attempted to drag her away forcefully.
The incident was captured in clear detail by a nearby CCTV camera. The nearly one-minute footage purportedly shows the boy approaching the group, seizing the girl's hand, and pulling her before fleeing the scene when she screamed and raised an alarm. The visual evidence has played a crucial role in bringing the case to light and ensuring swift police action.
Police Response and Legal Action
Circle Officer (Kotwali) Varun Mishra confirmed that an FIR has been lodged at the Kotwali police station under BNS Section 74, which criminalizes assault or use of criminal force against a woman with the intent to outrage her modesty. This legal provision underscores the seriousness with which authorities are treating the case.
Mishra emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and that all necessary steps are being taken to ensure justice for the victim. The involvement of a juvenile accused adds a layer of complexity to the proceedings, but police have assured that the matter is being handled with due diligence.
Community Concerns and Broader Implications
Local residents have expressed alarm over the incident, noting that the lane in question is frequently used by students and locals, making it a busy thoroughfare. Some community members revealed that harassment in the area is not uncommon, but the circulation of the CCTV footage this time has brought the issue into sharp focus, prompting calls for increased safety measures.
The widespread sharing of the video on social media and local networks has amplified public outrage, leading to demands for better policing and community vigilance to prevent such occurrences in the future. This incident highlights ongoing challenges related to women's safety in public spaces, even in seemingly ordinary settings.
As the case progresses, authorities are urging the public to refrain from speculation and to cooperate with the investigation. The focus remains on ensuring the victim's well-being and upholding the rule of law, with the CCTV footage serving as a pivotal piece of evidence in the pursuit of justice.
