Bombay High Court Slams Police Over Delayed Action in Shocking Kindergarten Assault Case

The Bombay High Court criticized the local police for their delay in filing an FIR regarding the sexual assault of two kindergarten girls in Badlapur. The court emphasized the importance of safety and directed the Special Investigation Team to submit a detailed report, condemning the police for their nonchalance and highlighting the school's failure to report the crime promptly.

The Bombay High Court expressed outrage over the handling of a sexual assault case involving two kindergarten girls in Badlapur, near Mumbai. The court described the crime as 'absolutely shocking' and criticized the local police for their delayed response, having taken four days to register a First Information Report (FIR).

A male attendant allegedly assaulted the girls, aged about four, in the school's washroom on August 12 and 13. The FIR was not registered until August 16, with the accused arrested the following day, as noted in the court documents presented. The court stated that such heinous crimes, especially against minors, require immediate action without delay.

The court directed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to submit the original case diary and related documents by August 27. The case has stirred public outrage, prompting the court to advocate for police sensitization to prevent future lapses. The bench also lambasted the school authorities for failing to report the assault promptly, emphasizing that non-reporting is an offense under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

(With inputs from agencies.)