A four-year-old girl was allegedly abused by a 40-year-old nanny employed at a well-known international school in Goregaon, Mumbai. The incident, which has sent shockwaves through the community, comes just seven months after a similar controversy involving a 3.5-year-old student at another branch of the same school.

A fresh case has been registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, and the nanny has been arrested as investigations continue.

The incident came to light when the girl’s parents approached the Goregaon police station after noticing distressing changes in their daughter’s behaviour. According to police sources, the child was visibly traumatised, refusing to use the washroom and crying persistently for a week. Despite efforts to comfort her with water and gentle encouragement, she remained withdrawn and unable to speak about the incident.

Medical exam reveals disturbing evidence

Concerned by their daughter’s distress, the parents sought medical attention. A doctor’s examination revealed an injury to the girl’s private parts, prompting the parents to confront the school.

It was then that allegations surfaced that the nanny had inappropriately touched the child. Outraged, the parents immediately reported the matter to the police.

“After a thorough investigation and inquiry, we arrested the 40-year-old nanny,” a police spokesperson confirmed. “We are currently verifying her criminal background and gathering further details to ensure a comprehensive investigation.”

The police noted that the victim remains deeply traumatised and has been unable to provide detailed statements due to her fear and distress.

Second incident in seven months

This is not the first time the school has faced such allegations. On 12 February, a 3.5-year-old girl from a different branch of the same institution was allegedly sexually abused by an unidentified man on school premises. The Bangur Nagar police registered a case under the POCSO Act, but no arrests have been made in that investigation. The young victim in that case reportedly described her abuser as a ‘male monster’ and sketched her assaulter in a school activity book, but the police have yet to identify any suspects.

The mother of the earlier victim expressed frustration, stating, “My daughter sketched a male monster, but the police have found no leads. We are still waiting for justice.”

The recurrence of such incidents has raised serious concerns about the safety protocols at the school’s various branches.

Ongoing probe, community outrage

In the current case, the nanny has been charged under relevant sections of the POCSO Act and remains in custody as the police continue their inquiries. Authorities are working to ensure the victim receives appropriate support while investigating whether the nanny has any prior criminal history.

The girl’s mother has been tirelessly seeking justice, navigating a challenging process in the hope that the perpetrator will be held accountable. The school has yet to issue a public statement, but parents and the wider community are demanding answers about how such incidents could occur in a reputed institution.

The back-to-back allegations have sparked outrage among parents and calls for stricter oversight of school staff and enhanced child protection measures. As investigations proceed, the focus remains on supporting the young victims and ensuring justice is served. Goregaon police have assured the public that they are treating the case with the utmost seriousness. “The victim is terrified and deeply distressed,” a police official said. “We are committed to a thorough investigation to uncover the full truth and deliver justice.”