Bengaluru: The Banashankari police in south Bengaluru have registered a case against a man after a disturbing incident in which a five-year-old child was allegedly kicked while playing outside a house, officials confirmed on Friday.
Incident occurred in broad daylight
According to the police, the incident took place on December 14 between 1 pm and 1.10 pm in the TR Nagara area. The accused has been identified as Ranjan, a resident of a neighbouring house. The child was reportedly playing on the road along with a few other children when the incident occurred.
As per the first information report (FIR), Ranjan allegedly ran towards the child and kicked him without any provocation. The sudden assault left the child injured and shocked onlookers in the neighbourhood.
Child sustained injuries near eye
The child’s mother, who is also the complainant in the case, told the police that her son suffered injuries near his eye and sustained minor scratches on his limbs due to the kick. She stated that the child was immediately attended to after the incident and is now recovering from the injuries.
The complainant further informed the police that she and her son are residents of Doddamavalli and were visiting her brother, who lives in TR Nagara, at the time of the incident.
CCTV footage captures assault
The entire incident was captured on the CCTV camera installed at a neighbouring house. The footage, which has since surfaced on social media, shows the accused running towards the child, kicking him, and then walking away casually, without showing any concern for the injured boy.
The video triggered widespread outrage online, with many users condemning the act and demanding strict action against the accused. Several social media users described the incident as horrifying and called for the immediate arrest of the man involved.
Police action and legal provisions
Initially, the Banashankari police registered a non-cognisable report (NCR) based on the complaint. However, after reviewing the CCTV footage and the details of the incident, the police sought court permission to proceed further.
On December 15, following approval from the court, the police registered an FIR under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) Section 115, which deals with voluntarily causing hurt. An investigation has since been launched to ascertain the circumstances that led to the assault.
Police officials stated that statements of witnesses are being recorded and further action will be taken based on the findings of the probe.
Public outrage and calls for accountability
The video clip of the incident has gone viral, drawing sharp reactions from the public. Many have expressed concern over the safety of children playing in residential areas and questioned how such unprovoked violence could take place in broad daylight.
Some social media users claimed that the accused works as a gym trainer, though the police have not officially confirmed this detail. Activists and child rights advocates have urged authorities to treat the case with seriousness and ensure that the accused is held accountable under the law.
Safety of children under focus
The incident has once again brought attention to the issue of child safety in urban neighbourhoods. Residents and parents have raised concerns about the lack of deterrence against acts of violence, especially when children are involved.
Legal experts point out that while BNS Section 115 addresses voluntarily causing hurt, stricter provisions can be invoked if the investigation reveals aggravating factors or repeated violent behaviour.
Conclusion
The assault on a five-year-old child has sparked widespread condemnation and renewed calls for stronger measures to protect children in residential areas. As the investigation continues, the police have assured that appropriate legal action will be taken based on evidence, including the CCTV footage. The case serves as a grim reminder of the need for vigilance, swift policing, and community responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of children.