9-year-old deaf and mute girl raped in Saadatganj; minor apprehended

Lucknow: A nine-year-old deaf and mute girl was allegedly raped in the Saadatganj area by a 16-year-old boy from the neighbourhood, police said on Thursday.

According to officials, information about the incident was received through UP 112 in the early hours of June 11 from the Maulanagari Gate No. 1 area. Police said the incident occurred in Wazirbagh locality under Saadatganj police station.

Based on a complaint lodged by the victim's mother, a case was registered under Section 65(2) (rape) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Sections 5M/6 of the POCSO Act.

The survivor was immediately sent for medical examination to Rani Laxmi Bai Combined Hospital, Rajajipuram, under the supervision of women constables, in line with protocol.

Saadatganj SHO Santosh Kumar Arya said a special team was constituted to trace the accused. Acting on a tip-off, police apprehended the minor near Wazirbagh Nala while he was allegedly attempting to flee.

Preliminary investigation suggested the girl was sleeping alone when the accused entered the house, took her to another room and sexually assaulted her before fleeing. Her mother later rushed her for medical help after noticing her condition and informed police.

Investigators collected forensic and circumstantial evidence from the spot. The minor accused was produced before the Juvenile Justice Board and sent to a juvenile home.

Police said counselling and support are being provided to the survivor.