Jharsuguda police arrest 70-year-old man for sexually assaulting disabled 15-year-old

Jharsuguda police arrested a 70-year-old man on Thursday for allegedly sexually assaulting a specially abled 15-year-old girl.

According to police officials, the incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon when the girl’s parents, who are daily wage labourers, had gone out to work. The accused lured the girl and took her into his house where he sexually assaulted her.

The victim’s mother lodged a complaint on Thursday morning, following which police arrested the accused.

The girl’s parents are daily wage labourers, as stated by police officials.

The offence took place under Jharsuguda district.

Local residents expressed shock and outrage over the incident, with several community members calling for swift justice and enhanced protection for vulnerable children in the area. One neighbour, who wished to remain anonymous, said, "We never expected something like this to happen in our locality. The girl is specially abled and depends on others for care. It’s horrifying that someone took advantage of her condition."

Police sources confirmed that the accused has been identified as a resident of the same locality and was known to the family, though no prior criminal record was found. The suspect was apprehended without resistance and is currently in judicial custody pending further investigation.

Officials from the Jharsuguda police station emphasized that the case is being handled under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, and that forensic evidence has been collected from the scene. A medical examination of the victim was conducted at the district hospital, and the report has been submitted to the court.

The District Child Welfare Committee (DCWC) has been notified and is providing counselling and support services to the victim and her family. Officials reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety of children, especially those with disabilities, and urged the public to report any suspicious activity immediately.

As the case proceeds, authorities have urged against spreading unverified information on social media and stressed the importance of maintaining the victim’s dignity and privacy throughout the legal process.

Related Coverage

• Bomb Threat Email Triggers Security Scare at Jharsuguda Court