Mumbai Police has apprehended a man for purportedly sexually assaulting a 5-year-old boy in Dharavi.
The Gruesome Incident
On May 4, the locality experienced a power outage, during which the 20-year-old suspect allegedly lured the boy to his residence and sexually assaulted him, as reported by an official from the Dharavi police station.
The boy informed his parents about the incident two days later, following which a case was registered under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO),” stated the official.
The accused individual was arrested on Thursday evening.
Child Sexual Abuse in India’s Largest Slum
Dharavi, known for its crowded living conditions and complex social dynamics, presents unique challenges in combating child sexual abuse. Cases often occur within the close-knit community, sometimes perpetrated by individuals known to the child or even within the child’s own household.
Instances of sexual assault on children in Dharavi underscore the urgent need for heightened awareness, robust child protection measures, and swift law enforcement responses. While legal frameworks such as the Indian Penal Code and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act provide avenues for justice, effective implementation and access to support services remain critical.
Community engagement and proactive intervention are essential in preventing and addressing incidents of child sexual abuse in Dharavi. By fostering an environment of vigilance, support, and accountability, residents, authorities, and stakeholders can work together to protect the most vulnerable members of society and ensure that children in Dharavi grow up in safety and security.
