CISF Jawan Arrested in Bengal for Alleged Attempted Sexual Assault on Minor Girl

Police in Asansol have arrested a 40-year-old jawan of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) on charges of attempting sexual assault on a 10-year-old girl on April 26. The accused, identified as Ramakant Vishwakarma, was posted on security duty at a nearby coal mine and had no connection with election-related responsibilities, officials clarified.

According to police sources, the incident occurred on Sunday afternoon near a CISF camp in the Asansol area of Paschim Bardhaman district. The minor girl, who had gone to pluck raw mangoes in the vicinity along with her younger sister, was allegedly approached by the jawan. He lured both children with the promise of more mangoes and took them on his scooter to a nearby quarter within the camp premises. The younger child was asked to wait outside while the 10-year-old was taken inside, where he allegedly attempted to sexually assault her.

The girl managed to return home and informed her family about the ordeal. Shocked and outraged, the family immediately approached the local police station and filed a formal complaint. Acting swiftly on the information, officers from the Kulti police station, including personnel from the Sanktoria outpost, launched a search operation. The jawan was traced and arrested late on Sunday night from the camp area. His quarters were found locked initially, but he was apprehended within hours.

A case has been registered against Vishwakarma under the relevant sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012. Investigations are ongoing to gather further evidence, including statements from the victim and witnesses.

In response to the serious allegations, the CISF has taken immediate departmental action. The force has suspended the jawan and subsequently dismissed him from service, emphasising its policy of zero tolerance towards any misconduct involving civilians, especially minors. A senior CISF official stated that such incidents are unacceptable and that the organisoation stands firmly with the law enforcement agencies in ensuring justice.

The arrest triggered widespread outrage among local residents. Protesters gathered near the area, blocking roads and demanding strict punishment for the accused. The demonstration caused temporary disruption to traffic, but the situation was brought under control after the jawan’s arrest. Community leaders and locals expressed concern over the safety of children in the vicinity of security installations and called for enhanced vigilance and support mechanisms for vulnerable groups.

Police have appealed to the public to cooperate with the investigation and have assured that the case will be handled with utmost sensitivity, keeping the victim’s best interests in mind. No further details about the girl or her family are being disclosed to protect their privacy, as per legal guidelines.