Missing girls from Seraikela shelter home, sexual abuse disclosure raises questions
Pioneer News Service, Jamshedpur
A serious controversy has emerged from Seraikela-Kharsawan after two teenage girls reportedly went missing from the Vatsalya Balika Grih located in Chhota Gamharia. The incident has raised questions over security arrangements and the functioning of the shelter home, particularly after it emerged that one of the missing girls had earlier disclosed allegations of sexual abuse during a counseling session.
According to officials, one of the missing girls belongs to Patamda, while the other is a resident of Kuchai. Police have launched an investigation and efforts are underway to trace the missing teenagers.
As per a written complaint submitted to the police by Shalini Kumari, In-charge Superintendent and Counselor of the shelter home, the girl from Patamda disclosed details of alleged sexual abuse during a counseling session held on May 8.
The teenager reportedly stated that between January 17 and February 15, she had been subjected to repeated physical and sexual abuse by a male acquaintance whom she regarded as a brother figure. She further alleged that the accused continuously threatened and intimidated her, forcing her to remain silent about the incidents for several weeks.
The case has drawn attention because the alleged disclosure was reportedly made 18 days before the girl’s disappearance. Sources indicate that despite the seriousness of the allegations, no immediate police complaint was filed after the counseling session.
Under the provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, information relating to sexual offences against minors is required to be reported promptly to law enforcement authorities.
The alleged delay in reporting the matter has raised concerns regarding compliance with child protection protocols and the responsibilities of shelter home authorities.
Following the disappearance of the two girls, police have begun an inquiry into both the missing persons case and the circumstances surrounding the alleged abuse complaint. Officials are examining whether established procedures were followed after the disclosure was made and whether any lapses occurred in the shelter home’s management and security arrangements.
The incident has sparked concern among child rights advocates and local residents, who are demanding a thorough investigation into the disappearance of the girls as well as the handling of the abuse allegations.
The case has once again highlighted the importance of stringent monitoring, timely reporting of child abuse complaints and robust security measures at child care institutions. Authorities are expected to review the functioning of the shelter home while continuing efforts to locate the missing teenagers and determine the circumstances surrounding their disappearance.
