In a dramatic and disturbing incident, nine minor girls from the Vidyadeep Children’s Home in the cantonment area of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar escaped from the orphanage on Monday afternoon (June 30) and went straight to the District and Sessions Court, alleging physical abuse, caste discrimination, and lack of basic facilities.
The incident unfolded around 12:15 PM, when the girls reportedly jumped out of the orphanage’s back gate and compound wall before making their way to the court premises. Eyewitnesses said the girls were carrying stones and iron rods, leading to brief panic and commotion inside the court complex. They shared their grievances with lawyers, citizens, and police officials present there.
The girls alleged that they were being physically assaulted by the orphanage staff and were subjected to caste-based discrimination. They also complained about the absence of proper food, sanitation, and other essential facilities.
Following the incident, the orphanage management alerted the local police. Meanwhile, members of the Damini Squad (a women’s safety wing of the police) began pursuing the girls. During the chase, two of the girls managed to evade capture and, in the process, reportedly threw stones at the squad's vehicle. The remaining seven were detained and handed over to the Child Welfare Committee (CWC).
The CWC has taken serious cognizance of the matter and launched an investigation. Officials are recording the statements of the girls to verify the allegations. However, sources suggest that the girls may be under pressure from the orphanage management, and the full extent of the situation might not yet be known.
This incident has sparked outrage and concern among citizens, activists, and child welfare organizations. Questions are being raised about the oversight and functioning of child care institutions in the district. The administration has assured that appropriate legal action will be taken based on the findings of the CWC inquiry.
As of late Monday night, statements were still being recorded, and efforts were underway to locate the two girls who had fled. Further developments are expected as the investigation continues.