Delhi: Major protest erupts after neighbor assaults 5-year-old boy

New Delhi: A five-year-old boy in southeast Delhi's Govindpuri area was allegedly sexually assaulted by a 35-year-old neighbor, identified as Balram Dass, also known as Kalu. The incident, which has sparked widespread outrage in the community, came to light on September 1 after the young victim disclosed the assault to his parents.

Details of the incident

According to police sources, the accused lured the boy into his home on Sunday, where he allegedly drugged and sexually assaulted him. The boy was missing for several hours before his family managed to locate him and immediately took him to the police station. Following the boy's revelation, the police registered a case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and arrested Balram Dass on Tuesday night.

Local outrage

The arrest of the accused led to massive protests in the area. As news spread, a large crowd gathered at the Govindpuri police station, demanding immediate and stringent action against the perpetrator. Protesters blocked a major road and surrounded the police station, chanting slogans and expressing their anger. Despite assurances from senior police officers that strict action would be taken, the protesters refused to disperse, forcing authorities to deploy additional police forces and call in paramilitary units to restore order. 

A six-year-old boy in southeast Delhi's Govindpuri area was allegedly sexually assaulted by a 35-year-old neighbor, leading to the arrest of the accused, Balram Dass alias Kalu. The incident came to light after the boy revealed the assault days later. #Govindpuri #Delhi #Balram pic.twitter.com/ceSLOYqLQI

— Buzz Flare (@BuzzFlare) September 4, 2024

Safety and well being of the victim

The boy was sent for a medical examination at AIIMS, and his statement was recorded before a magistrate on Tuesday. The victim has since been placed in a care home in Lajpat Nagar for his safety and well-being.

The incident has caused significant unrest in the community, highlighting ongoing concerns about the safety of children in the area.