Rajkot School Bus Driver Arrested for Alleged Rape of 6-Year-Old Student
In a deeply disturbing incident that has sent shockwaves through the community, a 50-year-old school bus driver has been arrested for allegedly raping a six-year-old nursery student in Rajkot district. The case, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Vinchhiya police station, highlights grave concerns about child safety in educational environments.
Charges Filed Under BNS and POCSO Act
The girl's mother filed a formal complaint against the accused, who was employed as a bus driver by the school. The First Information Report (FIR) has been registered under Section 65(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Sections 5(1), 6, and 12 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. These stringent legal provisions are designed to address and penalize sexual crimes against minors with severe consequences.
Details of the Alleged Crime
According to police officials, the victim and the accused reside in the same village, which may have facilitated the alleged offenses. The FIR outlines that the accused engaged in inappropriate physical contact with the child on January 13, followed by an alleged rape on January 20. Investigators revealed that the accused reportedly lured the young girl away from her home using chocolates, taking her a short distance to commit the crime.
Investigation and Arrest
The alleged crime came to light on Wednesday when the child refused to attend school and confided in her mother about the traumatic events. Inspector A C Damor of the Vinchhiya police stated that authorities acted swiftly, arresting the accused within hours of the complaint being filed. The accused is scheduled to be produced in court on Friday, where legal proceedings will commence.
As part of the ongoing investigation, both the victim and the accused have undergone medical examinations. Police are also collecting scientific evidence to build a robust case. The accused is reported to have a married daughter and a son, adding a layer of complexity to the community's reaction to the incident.
Broader Implications for Child Safety
This case underscores critical issues regarding the safety of children in school transportation systems and the need for stringent background checks for staff. It serves as a stark reminder for parents, educational institutions, and law enforcement to remain vigilant in protecting vulnerable minors from such heinous acts. The application of the POCSO Act in this instance reflects the legal framework's role in seeking justice for victims of child sexual abuse.
