In a distressing incident in Bengaluru’s Hegde Nagar area, a 19-year-old madrasa teacher, Mohammed Hasan, was arrested for allegedly assaulting an 11-year-old girl. The incident, which occurred on February 16, was captured on the madrasa’s CCTV system. The girl’s mother filed a complaint at Kothanur police station on February 20, leading to Hasan’s arrest. Authorities have charged him under Section 75 of the Juvenile Justice Act and Section 115 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

Reports suggest that the assault was triggered by a minor issue involving spilled rice and a quarrel among students. Investigations are ongoing to determine the motive behind the attack and to assess if other students have been similarly mistreated. The madrasa, operational since 2021, is managed by a local trust.

This incident highlights a concerning pattern of abuse in educational institutions. In July 2024, Bengaluru police booked a female nursery school teacher for allegedly sexually assaulting a three-year-old girl. Similarly, in December 2024, the Karnataka High Court dismissed a petition by a madrasa trustee seeking to quash proceedings in a child sexual assault case, emphasizing the severity of such offenses. These cases underscore the urgent need for stringent measures to protect children in educational settings.

Ensuring the safety and well-being of students is paramount. Educational institutions must implement robust child protection policies, conduct regular training for staff, and establish clear reporting mechanisms. Parents and guardians are encouraged to remain vigilant and engage in open dialogues with their children about their daily experiences. Communities must work collaboratively to create safe environments where children can learn and grow without fear.