Major S K Yadav of the Indian Army and his wife, Kimi Ralsun, have been arrested in Haflong, Assam, over allegations of severe abuse against their 17-year-old domestic worker. The information emerged on September 24, leading to their apprehension on September 25. The couple faces charges under multiple sections of the IPC, the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, and the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.
The wife, originally from Haflong, had married the Major during his posting in the district. They had relocated the girl, from the Kuki community, to Himachal Pradesh two years ago. She was returned to her family by Ralsun this month in a dire physical state.
Social media played a pivotal role in exposing the abuse. An online post highlighted the girl’s injuries, prompting police action. Dima Hasao’s Superintendent of Police, Mayank Kumar, stated the victim had endured extensive injuries, including burns, cuts, broken teeth, and a swollen face. She remains hospitalised and struggles to speak.
To support the girl’s rehabilitation, Rs 50,000 from the Juvenile Justice Fund has been given to her family, with additional compensation being discussed. Collaboration among agencies like child welfare, social welfare, and district child protection is ongoing to provide the victim with legal aid and reintegrate her into society.
