Varanasi Nursery Teacher Accused of Burning 5-Year-Old Boy's Genitals

A five-year-old nursery student was allegedly subjected to a horrific act of abuse at Serene Soni Play School in Kashi Enclave, Akatha, under the Lalpur-Pandeypur police station limits in Uttar Pradesh's Varanasi. The incident, which reportedly occurred on July 24, has sparked nationwide outrage, with police launching a detailed investigation into the allegations.

According to the complaint filed by the child's father, an advocate, the boy sought permission from his class teacher, Preeti Kushwaha, to use the washroom during class. The request was allegedly denied, and the child accidentally urinated in his clothes. Enraged, the teacher is accused of taking the child to another room, heating a knife on a gas stove/lighter, branding his genitals, physically assaulting him, and warning him not to reveal the incident to anyone.

The child's mother later discovered a blister while bathing him. After initially remaining silent, the frightened boy allegedly narrated the incident to his parents. The family claims their attempts to contact the teacher were ignored, while principal Hemlata Singh and the school management allegedly refused to cooperate and instead threatened them when they sought an explanation.

Following the complaint, Lalpur-Pandeypur Police registered an FIR against teacher Preeti Kushwaha, principal Hemlata Singh, and an unidentified school manager. Police said the case is being investigated under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) relating to voluntarily causing hurt, assault, and criminal intimidation. Officers have inspected the school, seized the CCTV DVR and footage, examined the kitchen where the child was allegedly taken for about two minutes, and are recording statements from staff members.

Officials confirmed that the child underwent a medical examination, although the initial report reportedly did not conclusively establish burn injuries. Police have clarified that the investigation remains ongoing and that further legal action will depend on the final medical report, CCTV evidence, witness statements, and forensic findings.

The case has drawn sharp political reactions, with Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav demanding stringent action against those responsible. Child rights advocates have also urged authorities to invoke appropriate provisions of the POCSO Act if the allegations are substantiated during the investigation.