Two minor girls, aged 9 and 12, were brutally raped by two staff members at a private swimming pool in Delhi’s Narela area on August 5, 2025. The suspects, Anil Kumar and Munil, lured the girls to the premises, locked them overnight, carried out the assault, and threatened to kill them if they spoke out.
The girls’ families approached police after the children disclosed their ordeal, leading to swift arrests under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The investigation is ongoing, with collected evidence and official statements confirming the gravity of the case.
A Night of Trauma: The Crime and Its Aftermath
The two girls, residents of the Bawana slum, visited the MK Swimming Pool near Lampur Bus Stand on August 5. Unbeknownst to their families, they were familiar with the location and entered for swimming practice. According to a statement in Hindustan Times, Anil Kumar, a contractor, demanded payment but upon refusal, locked the girls in a room.
He then sexually assaulted them, after which his colleague, Munil Kumar, also raped the minors. The men held the girls captive through the night and threatened to kill them if they reported the crime.
The trauma left the children initially silent until August 7, when one finally confided in her aunt, prompting the family to approach Narela Police. Swift police action led to arrests on August 10 and recovery of crucial evidence including bedding stained with evidence, empty condom packets, and the pool’s digital video recorder.
Justice in Motion: Police and Community Response
After the FIR was registered, police conducted medical examinations and recorded the girls’ statements before a magistrate, as required by law. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Outer-North) Hareshwar V Swami stated that both suspects, who had no prior criminal records, were arrested and interrogated.
The swimming pool, while not fully operational, had a history of allowing unsupervised entry to children from the neighbourhood. The community has expressed shock, while rights activists are calling for urgent reforms and safe recreational spaces. Investigation teams continue evidence gathering as both survivors and their families receive support and protection.
Deep-Rooted Issues: Systemic Failures and Calls for Reform
This heartbreaking incident has ignited debate about child safety and systemic shortcomings, especially in underserved urban communities. The fact that the pool was accessible despite not being fully functional highlights gaps in enforcement and oversight.
The perpetrators’ ability to lure and harm the children undetected demonstrates the persistent dangers faced by children in environments meant for recreation. Activists are pushing for more stringent rules, better supervision of such facilities, stricter employee background checks, and education initiatives for children and parents on safety and reporting mechanisms.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The Logical Indian stands in solidarity with the survivors and commends the prompt action of law enforcement. Yet, justice must also mean prevention. This case shines a harsh light on vulnerabilities faced by marginalised children, underscoring the need for robust child protection networks, systemic reforms, and trauma-informed care for victims.
How can we, as a community and nation, reimagine our neighbourhoods to ensure every child can pursue joy and growth without fear? Share your thoughts and be part of a collective effort to demand justice, create awareness, and foster safer, kinder spaces for all children.
