Ambala POCSO case, July 31: A 16-year-old schoolgirl in Ambala has accused her stepfather of sexually assaulting her, leading to the registration of a case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. Police have arrested the accused, while the minor has been placed in a shelter home under the supervision of the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) to ensure her safety.
Student Sought Help After Family Ignored Her Complaint
According to officials, the Class 10 student initially disclosed the alleged abuse to her mother. However, she claims her concerns were ignored, and she was allegedly asked to remain silent.
Unable to get support at home, the teenager later approached a teacher at her government school and shared her ordeal. The teacher immediately informed the Child Welfare Committee, which initiated the legal process and alerted the Women’s Police Station.
Following the complaint, police registered an FIR under the POCSO Act and arrested the accused. He has since been sent to judicial custody.
Victim Alleged Repeated Harassment
The minor reportedly told investigators that her stepfather had been behaving inappropriately toward her for a considerable period and had allegedly attempted to harass her on multiple occasions before the reported assault.
She stated that despite informing her mother about the incidents, no action was taken because of fear and family pressure.
Child Welfare Committee Intervenes
After the matter reached the Child Welfare Committee, the victim’s mother was called for counseling. According to committee officials, the mother allegedly requested her daughter to withdraw the complaint.
Considering the circumstances and the girl’s safety, the committee decided to shift her to a shelter home until appropriate protection measures could be ensured.
The minor also underwent professional counseling, during which she expressed a desire to return home but reportedly stated that her mother was pressuring her to withdraw the case.
Shelter Home Stay to Continue
Child Welfare Committee Chairperson Ranjita Goyal stated that the student will remain in the shelter home until the committee is satisfied that her safety can be ensured and counseling of family members is completed.
Officials also noted that awareness programs conducted in schools regarding child protection and reporting abuse helped the student gather the confidence to approach her teacher and report the alleged crime.
Police Investigation Underway
Police are continuing their investigation under the provisions of the POCSO Act. Authorities are collecting statements and evidence as part of the ongoing inquiry.
As the alleged victim is a minor, authorities have not disclosed her identity in accordance with legal provisions protecting child victims of sexual offences.
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