In a heart-wrenching and shocking revelation, a mere 5-year-old girl was raped inside a mosque in Belagavi, Karnataka, in October 2023, casting a dark shadow over the community. The accused, a 22-year-old Maulvi named Tufail Ahmad Dadafir, was apprehended by the Belagavi police in a swift operation following the emergence of a disturbing social media video that shattered the victim’s family’s year-long silence.
How Did the Case Come to Light?
The case, buried under layers of fear and societal stigma, came to light when a chilling video began circulating rapidly on social media platforms. In the footage, the victim’s father, his voice heavy with anguish, recounted the traumatic incident to another individual, revealing that an unknown assailant had attempted to sexually assault his young daughter in 2023.
Belagavi Superintendent of Police (SP) Bhimashankar Guled disclosed that the family had received the video evidence soon after the crime but chose not to report it, paralyzed by the dread of social ostracism and the potential tarnishing of their reputation in their close-knit community.
Refusing to let the crime go unpunished, the Belagavi police sprang into action upon discovering the viral video. A specialized investigation team was promptly constituted to unravel the details of the heinous act. With the cooperation of the mosque committee, authorities painstakingly traced the location of the crime, a place of worship meant to be a sanctuary.
Initially, the family resisted filing a formal complaint, haunted by the fear of public scrutiny and judgment. However, through persistent counseling and reassurance, the police convinced them of the necessity to seek justice for the young victim.
Investigation Under POCSO Act
Demonstrating their unwavering commitment to protecting vulnerable children, the police took the initiative to register a case on their own accord. The case was filed under the stringent provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, along with relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), as the incident occurred prior to July 2024, when the IPC was still applicable.
The investigation was bolstered by the involvement of the district child welfare officer and a compassionate local Anganwadi worker, who provided critical support in navigating the sensitive case.
The relentless efforts of the police culminated in the identification of the accused, Tufail Ahmad Dadafir, a resident of Malepur village in Bagalkot district. In a meticulously planned overnight operation, law enforcement tracked down and arrested the suspect, who was subsequently remanded to Hindalga Jail, marking a significant step toward justice for the young victim.
In a powerful statement, SP Bhimashankar Guled addressed the gravity of the crime and issued a stern warning to potential offenders. “This appalling incident serves as a chilling reminder to those who dare to perpetrate such monstrous acts. Criminals may evade justice temporarily, but the moment such cases come to our attention, we will leave no stone unturned to ensure they face the consequences of their actions,” he declared. His words reflect the police’s resolute dedication to safeguarding children and upholding the rule of law.
The actions of Tufail Ahmad Dadafir, a Maulvi entrusted with spiritual guidance, have not only violated a sacred space but brought to light such predatory behaviors by individuals in positions of authority which demands condemnation and introspection. This case serves as a clarion call to report such crimes without hesitation, reinforcing that silence only emboldens those who prey on the innocent.
Authorities are now urging citizens to report any suspected cases of child abuse promptly, emphasizing that protecting the most vulnerable is a shared responsibility.