Patna Man Arrested for Alleged Rape of 12-Year-Old Girl, Family Offered Money to Hush Up Case
A 32-year-old man was arrested on Wednesday in Patna on charges of allegedly raping a 12-year-old girl after luring her to a rented house in the Mithapur police station area. The incident has sparked outrage and highlights ongoing concerns about child safety and justice in the region.
Incident Details and Police Complaint
The case came to light after the victim's mother noticed signs of abuse and lodged a formal police complaint on March 31. According to the complaint, the accused allegedly took the minor girl to a rented house, where he raped her on March 16 and again on March 19. He is also accused of threatening the girl to keep silent and applying sindoor on her hair parting, a traditional symbol of marriage in some cultures, which added to the trauma.
Family's Attempt to Suppress the Matter
The victim's mother alleged that members of the accused's family attempted to hush up the matter by offering money. "The accused's mother and sister came to the police station in his defence and offered between Rs 1 lakh and Rs 10 lakh for a compromise, but we refused," she stated. She further claimed that after noticing the sindoor and questioning her daughter, the girl narrated the entire ordeal. "When I later went to the accused's sister's house to inquire, they assaulted and threatened me," she added, detailing the intimidation faced by the family.
Medical Examination and Legal Action
Following the written complaint, the minor girl was medically examined at a hospital to gather evidence. The accused, a resident of Masaurhi, has been arrested under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Pocso) Act and sent to judicial custody. City SP (Central) Diksha confirmed the arrest and stated that further investigation is underway to ensure all aspects of the case are thoroughly examined.
Broader Implications and Community Response
This case underscores the critical need for vigilance and prompt action in protecting minors from sexual abuse. The alleged bribery attempt by the accused's family raises serious questions about societal pressures and the challenges victims face in seeking justice. Authorities are urging the public to report such incidents immediately and cooperate with investigations to prevent similar tragedies.
As the legal process continues, the community in Patna is calling for stringent punishment under the Pocso Act to serve as a deterrent. The victim's family's courage in refusing the bribe and pursuing the case is being commended, highlighting the importance of standing firm against such heinous crimes.
