Pune School Van Driver Arrested for Allegedly Assaulting Two Six-Year-Old Girls

A 45-year-old school van driver in Pune has been arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting two six-year-old girls. The incident occurred on September 30 while the children were returning home from school in the Wanwadi area. Police are investigating whether a female attendant was present in the van at the time, according to an official.

The accused, Sanjay Reddy, reportedly touched the private parts of both girls. One of the victims informed her mother, who then contacted the police. A case was registered, and Reddy was arrested under sections 64 and 65(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. He is in police custody until October 8.

Investigation and Legal Proceedings

Deputy Commissioner of Police Zone V S Raja stated that they acted after being approached by one of the victim's mothers. "The accused have been arrested and a probe is underway to ascertain whether any other girl students were similarly targeted in the past," he said. Authorities are also examining if a woman attendant was present in the van and whether the vehicle was owned or contracted by the school.

In Maharashtra, it is mandatory for school buses or vans to have a female attendant. The police are coordinating with the school to verify compliance with this regulation. They are also determining if the van belonged to the school or was hired on contract.

Government and Public Reactions

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis assured strict action against those responsible, citing relevant sections under BNS and POCSO for rape and related offences. School authorities have been summoned for questioning to determine any negligence on their part. Fadnavis emphasised the need for schools to sensitise drivers and verify their backgrounds.

Rupali Chakankar, chairperson of Maharashtra State Commission for Women, demanded a detailed report from the police. "Stern action will be taken against the accused," she stated. Prashant Jagtap, city unit president of NCP SP, also called for stringent measures against Reddy.

Community Response

The incident has sparked outrage among local communities. Members of Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi vandalised the school van when it was brought to Wanwadi police station. This case follows another recent incident in Badlapur where a sweeper allegedly assaulted two four-year-old girls in a school toilet, leading to widespread protests.

The Badlapur case involved Akshay Shinde, who was later arrested but died in an alleged police shootout on September 23. These incidents highlight ongoing concerns about child safety in educational environments.