BHOPAL: A three-and-a-half-year-old pre-nursery student was allegedly sexually assaulted multiple times by a technical staff member at her private school in Kamal Nagar, Bhopal.

The incident came to light on 13th September when the girl complained to her parents about pain in her private parts. Upon examination by a doctor, injuries were detected, prompting the parents to report the matter to the school administration the following day.

However, the school management failed to take action, leading the parents to file a complaint with the Kamla Nagar police station on Tuesday evening.

A case of sexual assault was subsequently registered against the accused, identified as Qasim Rehan (25), under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

“The accused has been arrested after being identified by the little girl, and further investigations are underway,” stated Bhopal Police Commissioner Harinarayanchari Mishra. Reports indicate that Rehan had taken the girl into a toilet where he allegedly assaulted her multiple times.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav has vowed that the strongest possible punishment will be meted out to Rehan and has requested that the trial be expedited in a special court.

School Education Minister Rao Udai Pratap Singh has also indicated that strict action will be taken against the school if any lapses in its system are found.