In a deeply distressing case of child abuse, Mankhurd police in Mumbai have filed a case against a man, identified as Rajeshram alias Bhagwan, for allegedly physically assaulting his 5-year-old daughter, Sanjana. The incident came to light after a video allegedly showing the assault went viral among local residents.
The complaint was filed by Abdul Hakim Qayum Sheikh (45), a zookeeper and longtime resident of Karbala Chal in Mankhurd. On June 30, while on his way to pick up his daughters from school, Sheikh received a disturbing video from his wife. The clip allegedly showed the accused tying something to his leg and violently hitting his daughter.
Alarmed by the visuals, Sheikh rushed to the Mankhurd police station and presented the video to officers. A police team, including female constables, accompanied him to the accused’s residence in G Line, Karbala Chal. Though Rajeshram was not at home, his children—Sanjana and her brother Ankush—were found and brought to the station for safety and inquiry.
During preliminary questioning, Sanjana reportedly told police that her father beat her with his hands and even burned her cheek with a cigarette after she refused to sleep. Based on this, the police have registered an FIR under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code related to cruelty to a child and physical assault.
The accused is currently absconding, and a manhunt is underway to trace his whereabouts. Authorities have assured swift action and are coordinating with child welfare officials to ensure the children’s safety.
