In a disturbing incident from Rajkot, Gujarat, police have arrested a 25-year-old man for allegedly sexually harassing and stalking the 17-year-old daughter of his friend. The accused, identified as Divyesh Busa, was booked under stringent sections of the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
Harassment Unveiled During Family Dinner
The matter came to light on December 11 when the victim's family was dining at a hotel. The girl received a call from Busa, and her visible distress upon seeing his number on the phone screen alerted her father. When questioned, the teenager broke her silence and revealed the prolonged harassment she had been enduring.
She disclosed that Busa, whom she addressed as 'uncle' due to his friendship with her father, had been persistently contacting her. He pestered her to maintain a 'friendship' with him and repeatedly called her to meet at cafes and other public places. The harassment reportedly began around the time of Janmashtami. On one occasion, he even took her photograph without consent at a cafe. The victim also stated she would receive calls from him while she was in college.
Legal Action and Arrest
Shocked by the revelations, the girl's father immediately approached the Bhaktinagar police station and filed a formal complaint. Based on his statement, a case was registered against Divyesh Busa. The charges were framed under BNS Sections 75 and 78, alongside relevant sections of the POCSO Act, which deals specifically with crimes against minors.
Investigating Officer Mayurdhvaj Singh Sarvaiya stated that the accused was arrested on Wednesday following the complaint. Busa, who holds a job with a private company, was produced before a court on Thursday. Police sources confirmed that further evidence in the case is being actively collected to strengthen the prosecution's case.
A Betrayal of Trust
This case highlights a severe breach of trust, where an individual close to the family exploited his access to target a minor. The use of the POCSO Act underscores the seriousness with which authorities are treating the offence, given the victim's age. The incident serves as a stark reminder for parents to maintain open communication with their children and be vigilant about potential threats, even from familiar circles.
The Rajkot police's swift action in arresting the accused demonstrates a commitment to applying the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita provisions in cases of sexual offences and stalking. The investigation remains ongoing as officers work to compile all evidence related to the alleged stalking and harassment.
