The case in Jharkhand of a 14-year-old girl giving birth has brought to light a series of disturbing events. The young girl, a student, delivered a baby at Sadar Hospital in Ranchi. The minor, who is from Basia, Gumla district, was allegedly raped by a man from her own village. Due to fear of the accused and the potential for societal judgment, the family did not report the crime. They relocated to Ranchi in an effort to avoid public shame. The hospital staff alerted the police after the birth. Based on the girl’s statement, the police filed an FIR and started an investigation. The alleged perpetrator, Shiva Ahir, was arrested. The victim stated that the accused had harassed and ultimately raped her. She was threatened with consequences, leading to her silence. In a separate incident, a minor tribal girl was gang-raped in the Godda district on June 8th. Police arrested all those involved in the gang-rape. The events highlight a need for stronger protections for girls.
