Delhi Crime: 3-Year-Old Nursery Student Raped In School By Caretaker

A shocking case from West Delhi's Janakpuri area has once again raised serious concerns over child safety in schools and the handling of crimes against minors in the national capital. A three-year-old nursery student of a private school was allegedly raped by a 57-year-old school caretaker, police said. The accused was arrested on May 1, but his release on bail just days later has triggered outrage among the family and political leaders.

According to police, the incident came to light after the child returned home from school on April 30 and complained of pain. Her mother later approached authorities, alleging that the girl had described being taken to a secluded spot inside the school premises by the caretaker, where the assault allegedly took place.

The child was medically examined and later identified the school employee during the investigation, officials said. Based on the complaint, Delhi Police registered a case under Section 64(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to rape, along with Section 6 of the POCSO Act dealing with aggravated sexual assault on minors.

Investigators said the accused was arrested on May 1 and sent to judicial custody. CCTV footage, digital records and other forensic evidence were also seized as part of the probe. The child's statement was later recorded before a court.

However, the case took a controversial turn after a Delhi court reportedly granted bail to the accused on May 7 despite opposition from the prosecution. The decision sparked anger among the victim's family, who also accused police officials of delaying action and making them wait for hours at the police station during the initial stages of the complaint.

The Delhi Police denied all allegations of negligence and intimidation. In an official statement, the office of DCP West said the investigation was carried out promptly and in a child-friendly manner. Police also stated that the accused was arrested immediately after the child identified him and that all procedures were followed according to law.

The incident has intensified debate over security arrangements in Delhi schools, especially for very young children. Political reactions also followed, with AAP leader Saurabh Bharadwaj criticising the bail order and questioning the safety mechanisms in private educational institutions.

The case continues to remain under investigation while authorities examine legal options following the bail granted to the accused.