Nagpur Minor Charged Under POCSO for Alleged Sexual Assault Leading to Pregnancy
In a distressing incident from north Nagpur, a 14-year-old boy has been formally charged with sexually assaulting his 14-year-old friend, which has resulted in her pregnancy. The accused, who is a Class 10 student, was produced before the Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) and has been sent to a government shelter home for further legal proceedings.
Discovery of Pregnancy and Police Intervention
The case came to light when the girl's mother, a 35-year-old sanitation worker, rushed her to Mayo Hospital after she complained of severe stomach pain. Upon examination, doctors diagnosed the girl with a 29-week pregnancy, prompting hospital authorities to immediately alert the police. The girl, who is a school dropout, is currently under medical supervision to ensure her health and well-being during this critical time.
Following the medical report, the girl's mother lodged a formal complaint with the Pachpaoli police station. This led to the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) under Sections 4 and 6 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, along with relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The police have emphasized the sensitivity of the case, as both the survivor and the accused are minors, bringing it under the purview of the Juvenile Justice Act.
Details of the Alleged Assaults
According to the police complaint, the two teenagers lived in the same neighbourhood and were close friends. It is alleged that the boy exploited this friendship, repeatedly raping the girl against her consent. The assaults reportedly began on August 1 last year and continued over several months, occurring at each other's houses. The girl has stated to her mother that the boy forced himself on her multiple times, highlighting the prolonged nature of the abuse.
Ongoing Investigation and Legal Measures
Investigations are actively ongoing, with officers from the Pachpaoli police station, under the supervision of senior inspector Baburao Raut, examining various pieces of evidence. This includes call records, witness statements from the locality, and medical reports to build a comprehensive and watertight case. A woman officer has been assigned to handle the investigation to ensure sensitivity and support for the survivor.
In a key development, the survivor assisted the police by identifying the location where the perpetrator stayed, leading to the detention of the accused minor. The women and child development department is expected to step in to provide necessary assistance and support to the minor survivor, focusing on her rehabilitation and legal aid.
This case underscores the critical need for vigilance and protection mechanisms for minors, especially in cases of sexual violence. Authorities are committed to ensuring justice is served while adhering to legal protocols for juvenile offenders.
