BHOPAL : Police have arrested a 75-year-old lawyer in the Habibganj area for the alleged sexual assault of a five-year-old kindergarten student. The suspect, who was a neighbor of the victim, was sent to jail on Tuesday following a court appearance.
The Incident The incident reportedly took place on May 3. The victim is the daughter of a defense officer residing in the same neighborhood as the accused. According to Sub-Inspector Mukta Sharma of the Habibganj police station, the child had gone to the suspect’s house to play with his granddaughter. While there, the suspect allegedly lured the girl into a separate room and committed the assault.
Discovery and Medical Report The matter came to light later that night when the child complained of physical pain to her mother. Upon inspection, the mother discovered external injuries and immediately sought medical attention. A doctor confirmed suspicions of sexual abuse, prompting the family to approach the police. During questioning, the child identified the elderly neighbor, whom she referred to as “Nana” (grandfather), as the perpetrator.
Legal Action and Arrest The Habibganj police registered a case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and relevant sections of the penal code for rape. While the suspect initially attempted to mislead investigators during the preliminary inquiry, police officials stated that he later confessed to the misconduct.
Current Status Following his arrest, the accused was produced before a local court on Tuesday evening, which subsequently remanded him to judicial custody. To comply with Indian legal statutes regarding the protection of minors, the identities of the victim and her family have been withheld.
This case has sparked significant concern in the local community, highlighting issues of child safety within residential neighborhoods. Authorities have assured a thorough investigation to ensure a strong case is presented during the trial.
