Ahmedabad police have booked a 22-year-old man from Banaskantha under the POCSO Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita after a 15-year-old girl from Kalol gave birth in secret during a family function at a Bapunagar temple hall, where the newborn was later found dead.
Newborn discovered in temple toilet
On September 9, during an engagement ceremony at a hall near Bhidbhanjan Hanuman temple in Bapunagar, guests reportedly heard cries and found the infant’s body inside a plastic container in the toilet. An 108 ambulance team confirmed the baby was dead.
Police traced the mother to a minor relative present at the event. Medical checks confirmed she had delivered the child during the ceremony.
Assault by relative
Investigations revealed the Class 7 student had been sexually assaulted months ago by a male relative who had briefly stayed at her home. The assaults went unreported and the pregnancy remained undisclosed until delivery.
The accused has been charged with rape under BNS provisions and under POCSO, which mandates strict punishment for child sexual offences.
Support and investigation
“The minor is receiving medical care and counselling, and her statement will be recorded before a magistrate,” a senior officer said.
Police teams are tracing the accused, a resident of Sihori in Banaskantha. Child welfare officials have also been engaged to support the survivor and her family.