Minor Girl Sexually Assaulted After Contact Through Social Media 

Lucknow: The Lucknow Police arrested an 18-year-old youth named Hemant Kumar from Rae Bareli for allegedly raping a 17-year-old girl whom he befriended through social media. The arrest was carried out on Saturday, July 18, 2026, by a specialized team led by Naka Hindola Station House Officer (SHO) Vivek Kumar Chaudhary. Acting on a precise tip-off, police apprehended Kumar outside the Charbagh bus terminal in Lucknow. Following the assault, the accused explicitly threatened the victim with dire consequences if she spoke out. Intimidated by the warnings, the teenager kept the incident hidden for several months. 

The crime surfaced after the victim’s elder sister grew highly suspicious of her changing physical condition and behaviour. Upon questioning, the minor broke her silence, and subsequent medical assessments confirmed she was four months pregnant. Prior to legal intervention, the victim’s family made multiple attempts to contact Kumar to confront him. However, the accused blocked their phone numbers, cut off all communication, and absconded. 

Action to be Taken 

The accused should be prosecuted through a fast-track court to ensure a proper trial and timely delivery of justice. Strict legal action under the relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act should be pursued so that offenders are held fully accountable and similar crimes are deterred. The survivor must be provided with comprehensive support, including trauma-informed counselling, medical care, legal aid, and protection throughout the investigation and court proceedings. Authorities should also ensure that the survivor’s identity and privacy are safeguarded in accordance with the law. 

📰 Source: Times of india (English)