Man, facing molestation case, hired at tribal school – 21 complaints followed

A man already accused of sexually molesting young girls has been employed by a government-funded tribal residential school, where he allegedly preyed on 21 girls residing in the hostel. The 35-year-old man, employed as a helper to the school cook, was responsible for distributing food to the students. On Tuesday, a girl reported the accused for inappropriate touching when she visited the ashramshala superintendent.

Upon hearing the complaint, school authorities informed the police, leading to the arrest of the man on Wednesday. The Sub Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) of Thane (rural) confirmed that the accused worked as a helper for the cook, distributing food among other duties. The officer stated that it was only after the initial complaint that other girls came forward, alleging similar experiences.

The school authorities promptly reported the matter to the police, resulting in the filing of an FIR under pertinent laws, including the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The accused is currently in police custody, having been arrested in connection with a prior similar offence against minor girls at another institution, which he had previously faced charges for and was released on bail.

Police are investigating the school's hiring process, questioning how a person with such a criminal record ended up in a school environment where girls reside. The police are also trying to determine if there are any additional complaints against the accused. The victim will receive necessary counseling from the appropriate authorities.