Sanctuary or hunting ground? Outrage after toddler assaulted in Delhi private School
A wave of public and political indignation has hit the capital after a Dwarka court granted bail to a 57-year-old school caretaker accused of raping a three-year-old girl. The alleged assault took place inside a private school in West Delhi’s Janakpuri area, occurring just two days after the toddler had been admitted to the institution.
The Incident
The matter came to light on May 1, when the victim’s mother filed a formal complaint at the Janakpuri police station. According to the mother, the child returned from school on April 30 complaining of physical pain. Upon questioning, the toddler revealed she had been taken to an isolated area within the school premises and sexually assaulted.
The victim subsequently identified the 57-year-old caretaker, leading to his arrest on May 1. Police registered the case under Section 64(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Section 6 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
Controversial Bail Order
Despite the gravity of the charges and “strong opposition” from the prosecution, the accused was granted bail on May 7. The decision has sparked a sharp backlash, with authorities currently reviewing the court’s detailed order to determine further legal remedies.
The case has been further complicated by a war of words between the victim’s family and the Delhi Police. The mother alleged that:
- Action was not taken immediately upon reporting.
- She and her daughter were forced to wait for several hours at the police station.
- The DCP (West) allegedly threatened family members rather than offering cooperation.
Police Rebuttal
The office of DCP (West) Vichitra Veer issued a statement categorically denying allegations of harassment or negligence. The police maintained that:
The arrest was made “promptly” on the same day the victim identified the suspect.
CCTV footage and forensic exhibits were seized immediately in accordance with the law.
The inquiry was conducted in a “child-friendly environment” and the DCP had never personally met the parents, refuting claims of direct threats.
“The investigation was conducted in a fair, professional, and impartial manner based on scientific evidence,” the statement read.
Ongoing Investigation
Police officials confirmed they are currently analyzing CCTV and DVR footage from the school to bolster the case. While the accused remains out on bail, the victim’s family and local leaders continue to demand a more stringent judicial and administrative response to ensure the safety of students in private educational institutions.
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