The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued notices to the Karnataka Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police (DGP), seeking a detailed report on the alleged abuse of toddlers at a daycare centre in Bengaluru that has sparked nationwide outrage.
Taking suo motu cognisance of the incident, the apex human rights body observed that if the contents of the media reports are found to be true, they point to a serious violation of the children’s human rights. The Commission has directed the state authorities to submit a detailed report within two weeks.
Videos trigger investigation
According to the NHRC, the case came to light after a Child Helpline official received videos purportedly showing caregivers allegedly subjecting toddlers to physical and emotional abuse at the daycare centre used by employees working at a technology campus.
The videos reportedly showed caregivers placing toddlers inside a washing machine, spraying water into their mouths using a toilet jet spray, locking them inside toilets, forcing them to sit on western-style commodes and threatening them whenever they cried.
The videos later surfaced on social media and were forwarded to the Child Welfare Committee, prompting immediate action by the authorities.
Police action and SIT probe
Following the allegations, police registered an FIR at HAL Police Station against five caregivers under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act.
The accused have been identified as Manjula, Vijayalakshmi, Bhavani, Sindhu and Bindu. Police have arrested one accused, Vijayalakshmi, while another has been detained for questioning. Efforts are underway to trace the remaining absconding suspects.
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has also been constituted to conduct a comprehensive investigation. Police are verifying the authenticity of the videos, examining CCTV footage and recording statements from parents, witnesses and daycare staff.
Company shuts daycare temporarily
Following the incident, Capgemini temporarily closed its on-campus daycare facility, stating that the health, safety and well-being of employees and their families remain its highest priority. The company said it is fully cooperating with investigators.
Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge reiterated that the state government has “zero tolerance” for crimes against children and said all daycare centres must strictly follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), including thorough background verification of caregivers.