NCW Demands Strict Action After 3-Year-Old Assaulted at Bawana Private School
The National Commission for Women has taken suo motu cognisance of the alleged sexual assault of a three-year-old nursery student by a bus driver at a private school in outer-north Delhi's Bawana, demanding immediate and stringent action by the Delhi Police.
The accused has been arrested and booked at the Bawana Police Station under Sections 8, 10, and 21 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, as well as Section 74 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
In a communication to the Commissioner of Police, Delhi, NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar directed an expeditious investigation, custodial interrogation of the accused, and strict application of POCSO and BNS provisions. The Commission has sought an Action Taken Report within seven days detailing the investigation status, forensic findings, chargesheet timeline, and institutional oversight measures.
According to police, the incident came to light on August 19 after the child's family noticed injuries to her private parts. When questioned by her family, the nursery student allegedly spoke of a "bad uncle" at the school who had been offering her chocolates. On August 24, the child was shown photographs and school CCTV footage, through which she identified the accused. Police subsequently arrested the man from the school premises.
The Commission has called for an examination of the accused's seized mobile phone and videos to identify any other possible victims. It has also urged authorities to ensure the preservation of CCTV and physical evidence, alongside conducting a comprehensive inquiry into school-level safety and staff verification lapses.
The NCW stated that the survivor and her family, along with any other affected children, must be provided with protection, specialised psychological counselling, legal assistance, and applicable compensation. Affirming that child safety in educational institutions is non-negotiable, the commission added that it will closely monitor the case to ensure accountability.
